Instagram testing a feature to let you watch Reels while on other apps: Report

Instagram is testing a picture-in-picture feature that lets selected viewers see small versions of Reels playing out while they carry out tasks across other apps, reported TechCrunch, citing Instagram-parent Meta.

Rival video platforms TikTok and YouTube support picture-in-picture modes, with Instagram head Adam Mosseri saying this year that Meta was also looking into this option.

While advantages of the picture-in-picture mode include increased viewership for Instagram creators and longer sessions on Meta’s app, a potential disadvantage is that it can lead to distracted device use as more people view Instagram Reels while working with other apps.

There is no clear timeline or roadmap for the release of Instagram’s picture-in-picture mode, should the company decide to move forward with the feature.