YouTube’s Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode is an incredibly useful feature that allows users to watch videos in a floating window while using other apps. However, many users face issues where YouTube PiP stops working on Android or iPhone. If you’re wondering “Why isn’t my picture-in-picture working?”, this guide will help you troubleshoot and fix it.
Whether the YouTube PiP mode is greyed out, not functioning after an update, or only works occasionally, we’ll cover all possible fixes step by step.
What is PiP?
PiP (Picture-in-Picture) is a feature that allows users to watch videos in a small floating window while using other apps or browsing their device. This means you can continue watching YouTube, a video call, or other supported content while multitasking.
How PiP Works
- When you activate PiP, the video shrinks to a small, resizable overlay on your screen.
- You can move the window around or place it in a corner while accessing other apps.
- Tapping the PiP window usually brings up controls like play, pause, or close.
Where PiP is Available
- Android: Supported for YouTube (Premium users) and other video apps.
- iOS (iPhone & iPad): Available for YouTube (Premium users) and other apps like FaceTime.
- Desktop (Browsers): Some browsers, like Chrome and Firefox, allow PiP mode for videos.
Common Reasons YouTube Picture-in-Picture Is Not Working
If YouTube Picture-in-Picture (PiP) isn’t working, several factors could be causing the issue. Below are the most common reasons why PiP may not be functioning on your device.
1) PiP Mode Is Disabled
One of the primary reasons PiP doesn’t work is that the feature may be turned off in either YouTube settings or your phone’s system settings. You need to manually enable it to use PiP mode.
Solution: Go to YouTube Settings > General > Picture-in-Picture and enable the feature. Also, check Device Settings > Apps > YouTube > Picture-in-Picture and allow permission.
2) Outdated YouTube App
An older or buggy version of the YouTube app may cause PiP mode to stop working. YouTube frequently updates its app to fix bugs and introduce new features.
Solution: Open Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone), search for YouTube, and update the app to the latest version.
3) Device Settings Restrict PiP
Your phone’s system settings may have Picture-in-Picture mode turned off for YouTube, preventing the feature from working properly.
Solution: On Android, go to Settings > Apps > YouTube > Special Access > Picture-in-Picture and ensure it’s enabled. On iPhone, check Settings > General > Picture-in-Picture and enable it.
4) VPN Conflicts
If you’re using a VPN, YouTube PiP may not work due to regional restrictions. Some countries require a YouTube Premium subscription to use PiP mode.
Solution: Disconnect your VPN or change it to a U.S. server where YouTube PiP is available for free users.
5) Battery Optimization Restrictions
Some phones have aggressive battery-saving settings that restrict background apps, preventing PiP from running properly.
Solution: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Optimization, find YouTube, and set it to “Don’t optimize” to allow PiP mode to function smoothly.
6) Cache and Data Issues
Over time, YouTube’s cache files may get corrupted, causing various app issues, including PiP not working.
Solution: On Android, go to Settings > Apps > YouTube > Storage > Clear Cache & Clear Data. On iPhone, uninstall and reinstall the YouTube app to refresh the cache.
7) Ad-Blockers or Background Apps Interfering
Certain ad-blockers, third-party apps, or background processes can interfere with YouTube’s PiP feature.
Solution: Disable any ad-blocker extensions if using a browser. If using the YouTube app, try closing background apps and restarting your phone to see if PiP starts working.
How to Fix YouTube Picture-in-Picture Not Working
1. Enable Picture-in-Picture Mode for YouTube
YouTube PiP must be enabled both in the app and in your device settings. Here’s how to check and enable it:
- Open Settings on your phone.
- Go to General > Picture in Picture.
- Toggle “Start PiP Automatically“.
Test: Open a YouTube video, press the home button or swipe up, and check if PiP works.
2. Enable PiP in the YouTube App
- Open the YouTube app.
- Tap your Profile Picture (top-right).
- Go to Settings > General.
- Ensure “Picture-in-Picture” is turned ON.
If this option is missing, PiP might be restricted based on your country or YouTube account type.
3. Update the YouTube App
An outdated app can cause YouTube PiP issues.
How to update YouTube:
- For Android: Open Google Play Store, search for YouTube, and tap Update.
- For iPhone: Open App Store, go to Updates, and update YouTube.
If you’re still facing issues, try uninstalling and reinstalling the YouTube app.
4. Restart Your Device
A simple restart can fix YouTube PiP issues caused by temporary system glitches.
How to Restart:
Hold the Power Button and select Restart.
5. Disable VPN or Change VPN Region
Some VPN services block YouTube PiP, depending on your location.
Solution
- If using a VPN, disconnect it and try using PiP.
- If PiP is unavailable in your country, switch to a U.S. VPN server for access
Note: In some regions, YouTube PiP is only available for YouTube Premium users.
6. Clear Cache and App Data
Sometimes, corrupted app cache can cause PiP to stop working.
How to Clear YouTube Cache:
- Open Settings > Apps.
- Tap on YouTube > Storage & Cache.
- Select Clear Cache and restart the app.
Test YouTube PiP again after clearing the cache.
7. Turn Off Battery Optimization for YouTube
Power-saving features can restrict background activity, disabling PiP.
- Open Settings > Battery.
- Tap Battery Optimization > Select YouTube.
- Choose Don’t Optimize.
8. Disable Third-Party Apps Blocking PiP
Some apps like ad blockers, screen recorders, or floating apps may interfere with YouTube PiP.
Solution
- Close all running apps in the background.
- Try disabling any third-party overlay apps.
- If PiP starts working, one of these apps was causing the issue
9. Check for System Updates
Your phone’s software version might be outdated, causing PiP issues.
- Open Settings > System > Software Update.
- Download and install any available updates.
A system update may restore compatibility with YouTube PiP.
10. Use a Browser as an Alternative
If YouTube’s PiP mode still doesn’t work, try using a browser:
- Open Google Chrome or Safari.
- Go to m.youtube.com and request the desktop site.
- Play a video and then press the home button – PiP should now work.
This method bypasses YouTube’s restrictions and allows PiP without a Premium subscription.
FAQs
Final Thoughts
If YouTube Picture-in-Picture (PiP) isn’t working, start by enabling PiP mode in both the YouTube app and your device settings. Update the app and restart your phone to fix any temporary glitches. If you’re using a VPN, disconnect it, as regional restrictions may block PiP. Clearing the YouTube app cache and disabling battery optimization can also help restore functionality. Ensure your device is running the latest software update, as outdated systems may interfere with PiP mode. If all else fails, try using YouTube in a web browser for an alternative solution.
