YouTube rolls out picture-in-picture option for shorts

YouTube has officially introduced picture-in-picture (PiP) viewing for Shorts, allowing users to consume Shorts content while multitasking on their devices. The platform is also testing a new way to mention other users in comments and enabling Shorts downloads for Premium members.

According to the social media today platform, the premium subscribers can now minimize the Shorts viewing window and continue using other apps. "Get ready to multitask like a pro with our new picture-in-picture feature for YouTube Shorts! On Android devices, you can watch your favorite Shorts while browsing other apps or checking messages. It’s perfect for staying entertained without missing a beat," YouTube announced.

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With rising consumption of Shorts, YouTube has been developing this feature for some time. The platform also launched its @mention test, which allows users to mention other channels in comments. This test, announced earlier this month, is now live. "If you’re in the experiment group, typing the '@' symbol on an Android or iOS device followed by letters or characters of a channel name or handle in a comment will trigger a recommended list of channels to choose from. From there, select the channel you want to mention, leave your comment, and the handle will appear as the clickable linked mention," YouTube explained.

Currently, only a small group of creators can post comments with mentions, but all viewers and creators can engage with these comments. Additionally, YouTube is rolling out Shorts downloads for Premium subscribers and expanding its test of a conversational AI bot to more Premium users.

These features are primarily available to Premium members, highlighting YouTube's focus on enhancing the viewing experience. While not revolutionary, these updates provide insights into YouTube's plans for future user enhancements.