YouTube’s Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode is an essential feature for multitaskers who want to watch videos while using other apps. However, many users have reported YouTube PiP not working on Android, iPhone, and even desktop browsers.
If you’re wondering, “Why isn’t my YouTube picture-in-picture working?”, this guide will walk you through the common reasons and proven fixes to restore PiP functionality.
Understanding YouTube Picture-in-Picture (PiP)
What is YouTube PiP?
Picture-in-Picture (PiP) is a multitasking feature that allows you to watch a YouTube video in a small floating window while using other apps or browsing.
How Does PiP Mode Work on Different Devices?
- On Android – PiP is available for all users running Android 8.0 or later, but only YouTube Premium users can use it for music videos.
- On iPhone/iPad – PiP is available for YouTube Premium subscribers globally. Free users in the U.S. can use PiP for non-music content.
- On Desktop (Browsers) – Supported by Chrome and Firefox using built-in PiP controls.
Is PiP Available for Free Users vs. YouTube Premium Users?
- Free Users – In the U.S., Android users can access PiP only for non-music videos. iPhone users must have YouTube Premium.
- YouTube Premium Users – Get full PiP access, including music videos, across all devices and regions.
Common Reasons Why YouTube PiP is Not Working
There are several reasons why YouTube PiP isn’t working on your device:
- PiP is disabled in YouTube settings – Needs to be manually enabled.
- Device or OS does not support PiP – Older versions of Android and iOS don’t support PiP.
- YouTube Premium required – PiP for music videos is only available for Premium users.
- Outdated YouTube app – Bugs in older versions can cause PiP to stop working.
- Permissions not granted – The device must allow YouTube to use PiP.
- Browser issues – Some browsers don’t support PiP, or extensions might interfere.
Now, let’s fix YouTube PiP on your device!
Fixes for YouTube Picture-in-Picture Not Working
1) Enable Picture-in-Picture in YouTube Settings
PiP must be manually enabled within YouTube settings before using it.
On Android:
- Open YouTube and tap your Profile Picture (top right).
- Go to Settings > General.
- Find “Picture-in-Picture” and turn it ON.
On iPhone/iPad:
- Open Settings > General.
- Tap Picture-in-Picture and enable Start PiP Automatically.
For Browser Users:
- Right-click on a playing YouTube video.
- Click “Picture-in-Picture” (in Chrome or Firefox).
2) Grant Picture-in-Picture Permissions
If PiP is disabled in device settings, YouTube won’t be able to use it.
On Android:
- Go to Settings > Apps & Notifications.
- Tap Special App Access > Picture-in-Picture.
- Select YouTube and turn ON “Allow Picture-in-Picture.”
On iPhone/iPad:
- Go to Settings > General > Picture-in-Picture.
- Ensure “Start PiP Automatically” is enabled.
3) Update the YouTube App
An outdated app may cause bugs and glitches that stop PiP from working.
How to Update YouTube:
- On Android: Open Google Play Store > Search YouTube > Tap Update.
- On iPhone: Open App Store > Go to Updates > Tap Update next to YouTube.
4) Restart Your Device
A simple restart clears system glitches that may be blocking PiP.
Restart Steps:
- Android & iPhone: Hold Power Button > Tap Restart.
- Forced Restart (iPhone): Press and hold Power + Volume Down until the Apple logo appears.
5) Clear YouTube App Cache & Data (Android Only)
Corrupt cache files can cause YouTube PiP glitches.
How to Clear Cache:
- Go to Settings > Apps > YouTube.
- Tap Storage & Cache > Clear Cache.
- If the issue persists, tap Clear Data (this will reset YouTube).
iPhone Users: Offload the app via Settings > General > iPhone Storage > YouTube > Offload App, then reinstall YouTube.
6) Disable Battery Saver & Background Restrictions
Power-saving settings prevent PiP from running in the background.
On Android:
- Open Settings > Battery.
- Tap Battery Optimization > Find YouTube.
- Select Don’t Optimize.
On iPhone:
- Open Settings > Battery.
- Turn OFF Low Power Mode.
7) Check for Browser Issues (For Desktop Users)
If YouTube PiP isn’t working on Chrome or Firefox, try this:
- Enable PiP manually – Right-click the video twice > Select Picture-in-Picture.
- Disable extensions – Some ad blockers or pop-up blockers may interfere with PiP.
- Use a different browser – Try switching between Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
8) Try Using a VPN (For Region-Specific Issues)
In some regions, YouTube restricts PiP unless you have YouTube Premium.
If YouTube PiP isn’t working, connect to a U.S.-based VPN server.
Some free VPNs include ProtonVPN, Windscribe, or TunnelBear.
If PiP is working in the U.S. but not in your country, this is a regional restriction.
9) Use an Alternative Method (Workarounds for iPhone Users)
If YouTube PiP isn’t working on iPhone, try using Safari:
- Open Safari and go to YouTube.com.
- Play a video and switch to desktop mode.
- Start the video, then exit to the home screen – PiP should now work.
10) Reset App Preferences (Android Only)
If none of the above fixes work, reset App Preferences on Android:
- Open Settings > Apps > Reset App Preferences.
- Tap Reset to restore default settings.
This won’t delete your data, but it will reset permissions and settings.
11) Factory Reset as a Last Resort
If all fixes fail, a factory reset may be necessary.
- Backup your data first to avoid losing important files.
- Factory Reset on Android: Settings > System > Reset Options > Factory Reset.
- Factory Reset on iPhone: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Final Thoughts
If YouTube PiP is not working, simple fixes like enabling PiP in settings, granting permissions, updating the app, or clearing cache can resolve the issue. Checking battery restrictions, VPN settings, or browser compatibility may also help. By following these steps, you can restore seamless video playback and enjoy multitasking without interruptions.
