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YouTube app for Apple devices will get picture-in-picture

(Logo: YouTube/Google, Background image: Pexels, Graphic: The Desk)

Officials at video service YouTube say a popular feature will soon be available for app users on Apple phones and tablets.

The picture-in-picture feature, which allows users to continue watching videos in a small window while navigating other parts of their phone or tablet, has been limited for months to subscribers of YouTube’s Premium service.

This week, a YouTube spokesperson confirmed on Twitter that the feature will soon be available to all users of Apple devices running iOS 15, the current version of Apple’s mobile operating system.

The move comes weeks after YouTube rolled out the feature to users of its premium pay TV streaming service YouTube TV.

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About the Author:

Matthew Keys

Matthew Keys is a nationally recognized, award-winning journalist with over a decade of experience reporting on the business of media, broadcast television, streaming video platforms and emerging technology. He is the founder, publisher, and editor of TheDesk.net, a trusted source for in-depth news and analysis on the evolving media landscape.

Matthew’s reporting has appeared in major industry outlets, including StreamTV Insider, Digital Content Next and KnowTechie, where he covers topics at the intersection of journalism, streaming services, and digital media innovation. Throughout his career, he has held editorial roles at respected organizations such as Thomson Reuters, Tribune Media, the Disney-ABC Television Group and McNaughton Newspapers.

Known for his accuracy, clarity, and deep industry insight, Matthew continues to provide reliable reporting and thought leadership in a rapidly changing media environment. His work is frequently cited by industry leaders, analysts, and trade publications.