If you’re someone who loves using your phone as a second screen while watching TV or working, Instagram’s new feature is tailor-made for you. The platform is testing a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode for Reels that lets you keep a video playing in a small window, perfect for peripheral viewing.
This functionality transforms Reels into ideal second-screen content. You can have a creator’s live stream, a chill music video, or a silent cooking tutorial playing in the corner of your screen while you focus on another primary task on another device. It allows for passive content consumption in a way that was previously impossible on the platform.
The feature, which is currently being trialed with a select group, is a boon for creators who produce ambient or long-form content. It opens up new possibilities for how audiences can engage with their work. Of course, for those who prefer full-screen immersion, the feature can be easily turned off.
This update comes as Instagram also launches a dedicated iPad app. The new app enhances the “first screen” experience on tablets, providing a beautiful, large-format way to engage with content when it has your full attention.