WhatsApp for Android gets Picture-in-Picture mode for YouTube, Facebook, Instagram
After working on this much-anticipated feature for some time now, WhatsApp has finally released Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode for Android users. The messaging app has started rolling out its latest Android beta update (build number 2.18.301) to make this feature live. WhatsApp's PiP mode will allow users to watch YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook videos in a mini window within the app itself. Here's more.
WhatsApp's PiP mode also supports streamable videos, claims WABetaInfo
Here's how the feature will work
WhatsApp's PiP mode, so far exclusive to iOS, will now allow Android users to stream videos within their chat window. So, when you receive a video link, tapping on it will play the said video in a mini window rather than redirecting you to the source link. Moreover, the mini window will have play/pause/close control buttons and will also be re-sizeable and movable.
However, the feature is not working properly as of now
PiP mode, as seen in iOS, lets you view the video while simultaneously allowing you to navigate around WhatsApp and move to different chats, etc. However, in Android, the feature is not working properly considering when the user leaves the chat, the video stops automatically.
Meanwhile, here's how you can try out the feature
The feature is currently live for WhatsApp beta users and should be available for all after initial testing. However, if you still wish to try it out, here are the following options: Option 1: You can become a tester by joining Play Store beta program and get the update. Option 2: Uninstall your stable version of WhatsApp and download the Beta APK from APKMirror.
