With this feature, users can watch Reels in a small window floating on the screen while still surfing other applications, supporting better multi- tasks.
The new feature was first discovered by applied research expert Radu Oncescu. Users participating in the test will receive a notification on/off PiP.
According to observers, PiP not only makes it convenient to be multi-talented but can also retain viewers for longer with long videos, which are often difficult to maintain attention. For example, users can let Reels run background while texting or surfing X.
TikTok and YouTube have previously supported PiP for a long time. Instagram's addition of this feature is expected to help creators have more opportunities to retain audiences with long content, while increasing users' time spent with the application.
The move comes after Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri shared a few months ago, when he suggested that PiP would be rolled out soon. Instagram is currently testing it with only a small group of users and it is unclear whether it will expand globally.
