Watch Reels While You Chat: Instagram Tests Highly-Requested PiP Mode

In a move that directly addresses long-standing user feedback, Instagram is experimenting with a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) feature for its popular Reels format. This update, confirmed to be in a limited testing phase, is set to bring Instagram in line with other major video platforms like YouTube and TikTok, which have offered this multitasking capability for years. The head of Instagram, Adam Mosseri, had previously acknowledged that this was a frequently requested feature.
The core idea behind PiP is to allow for seamless multitasking. Users will be able to continue watching a Reel in a resizable, floating window that stays on top of other applications. This means you can keep an eye on a tutorial or enjoy a funny clip while responding to a text, checking your calendar, or even browsing another social media feed. The goal is to make video content a more integrated part of the mobile experience, rather than something that demands your full, undivided attention.
This development holds significant promise for creators on the platform. With viewers less likely to drop off from a longer video to perform another task, creators could see a substantial boost in their watch time and overall engagement. If the testing phase proves successful, a wider rollout is expected in the coming weeks. For those who prefer the traditional viewing experience, the PiP function can be turned off via a simple toggle in the Reel’s menu.
Alongside this video-centric update, Instagram has also expanded its device support by launching a native app for the iPad. This new app leverages the larger screen real estate with an optimized layout, aiming to make browsing, watching Reels, and interacting with content a more visually engaging experience for tablet users.