So, you've probably heard about Apple's latest software update, iOS 12, right? Well, let's take a moment to shine the spotlight on a nifty but often overlooked feature called Picture in Picture, or PiP for short.
Imagine this: you're watching a captivating video on your iPhone or iPad, but suddenly, you realize there's something urgent you need to respond to. In the past, you'd have to choose between pausing the video or exiting the app altogether. Not anymore! With PiP, you can now have your cake and eat it too, metaphorically speaking.
Here's how it works: When you're watching a video in a supported app, simply swipe up to go to the Home screen, or tap the Home button on older devices. Lo and behold, the video shrinks down and continues playing in a floating window on your screen. You can drag it to any corner, resize it, or even hide it off-screen. This means you can keep watching while you reply to messages, check your emails, or do just about anything else on your device.
PiP isn't just limited to videos. It also works with FaceTime calls, providing you with the flexibility to multitask without missing a beat. Picture this: you're on a FaceTime call with a friend, and you need to quickly look up some information or jot down a note. Instead of awkwardly pausing the call or switching back and forth between apps, you can now keep the conversation going while you attend to other tasks.
But wait, there's more! PiP isn't a one-trick pony. You can interact with the floating window, pause, play, fast forward, or rewind the video, all without leaving the app you're currently using. It's like having your own personal mini TV that follows you wherever you go on your device.
Now, you might be wondering, which apps support this magical PiP feature? Well, popular video apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Safari are already on board, with more developers expected to jump on the PiP bandwagon in the future. So, whether you're binge-watching your favorite show, following a recipe tutorial, or catching up on the news, PiP has got your back.
To enable PiP, simply go to Settings > General > Picture in Picture and toggle the switch to turn it on. You can also customize the behavior of PiP for different scenarios, such as automatically entering PiP when you switch apps or when you press the Home button.
In conclusion, the Picture in Picture feature in iOS 12 is a game-changer when it comes to enhancing your multitasking capabilities on your iPhone or iPad. So, the next time you find yourself in a pinch while watching a video or on a FaceTime call, just remember the magic of PiP and thank Apple for making our digital lives a little more convenient.