Multitasking Mastered: Instagram Tests PiP for Reels, Launches iPad App

Instagram is leveling up its user experience by embracing multitasking and large-screen formats. The platform has begun testing a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode for its popular Reels feature and has also released a fully optimized, native application for the iPad.
The PiP feature is currently in a limited trial and is designed to solve a common modern problem. When a user watching a Reel needs to reply to a message or check another app, the video will now shrink into a small, floating player instead of pausing. This allows for continuous viewing, blending entertainment and communication into a single, fluid action.
This is fantastic news for the creators who rely on Instagram to share their work. A key challenge is keeping viewers engaged until the end of a video. By allowing Reels to persist on-screen even when a user is multitasking, Instagram is helping creators achieve higher completion rates, which can positively impact their reach and visibility on the platform.
The launch of the native iPad app is another significant milestone. It delivers a polished, intuitive interface specifically for tablet users, making the app more enjoyable to use on a larger screen. Both initiatives show Instagram’s dedication to evolving with user habits and providing a more refined, versatile social media experience.