YouTube is finally expanding one of its most useful features to more people worldwide, as picture-in-picture mode is now rolling out free for non-Premium users outside the US. This means you can now keep watching long videos while using other apps, replying to messages, or browsing your phone without paying for YouTube Premium.
In an official update, TeamYouTube confirmed the broader rollout for free users globally.
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“We’re excited to share that picture-in-picture (PiP) is now rolling out to all users globally in the coming months. For users outside of the US, you now have access to PiP for longform, non-music content on Android and iOS.” — Dave, TeamYouTube
If you watch long-form non-music content, you can now minimize YouTube into a floating player window simply by leaving the app. The video keeps playing while you continue using your phone, making multitasking much easier.
YouTube Premium Lite users will still get the same PiP access they already have, while full Premium subscribers keep exclusive background play for music content as part of their uninterrupted experience.
Start a video, then swipe up or press your home button to exit the app. The floating player should appear automatically, though you may need to enable PiP settings on your device or YouTube app.
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