How to Use Picture in Picture on iPhone in iOS 26

Quick answer: Picture in Picture (PiP) lets you keep a supported video or FaceTime call in a floating window while you use other apps. Start a compatible video, use the player's Picture in Picture control when available, then move, resize, hide, restore, or close the floating window. App support can vary, so do not assume every streaming service or website behaves the same way.

The previous version claimed CASEBX laboratory testing and a 15–20% battery penalty. CASEBX did not perform a documented PiP battery benchmark, so those claims have been removed.

What Picture in Picture does

Apple's current iPhone User Guide says PiP can keep a video or FaceTime call visible while you open and use other apps. When a supported video is playing, tap the minimize-video/PiP control shown by the player. The video shrinks into a movable floating window.

How to use PiP controls

  • Move it: drag the floating video to another corner.
  • Resize it: pinch open to enlarge it or pinch closed to make it smaller.
  • Show controls: tap the floating window.
  • Hide it temporarily: drag it off the left or right edge.
  • Return to full screen: tap the restore control.
  • Close it: tap the close button.

Why PiP may not work in a specific app

PiP is an iOS capability, but the source app or video player also has to support the workflow. Subscription rules, content restrictions, embedded web players, and app-specific implementation can change. A static table claiming Netflix, YouTube, Safari, or every HTML5 player will always behave identically is not reliable.

If PiP works in an Apple workflow but not in a third-party app, check that app's current settings, subscription requirements, and support documentation before resetting the iPhone.

PiP and FaceTime

Apple explicitly documents PiP for FaceTime. During a compatible video call, leaving the full-screen call can keep the other participant visible while you use another app.

Does PiP drain 15–20% more battery?

There is no responsible universal percentage. Video playback, brightness, network conditions, codec, resolution, background activity, and temperature all affect battery use. If battery life is the concern, open Settings → Battery and review actual usage.

Troubleshooting

  1. Confirm the video or call is playing in an app that supports PiP.
  2. Look for the player's PiP/minimize control.
  3. Update the app and iOS if behavior changed.
  4. Restart the iPhone if the interface itself is unresponsive.
  5. Check the service's current PiP rules if the problem occurs only in one app.

FAQ

Can I move the PiP window?

Yes. Apple says you can drag it to another corner.

Can I hide the video temporarily?

Yes. Apple documents dragging the PiP window off the left or right edge.

Does every video app support PiP?

No. Support and service rules can differ by app, content, region, and subscription.

Official source

Apple iPhone User Guide — Multitask with Picture in Picture.

Back to blog