WhatsApp now allows Picture-in-Picture mode for users who make video calls while using other apps.
WhatsApp video calling is getting a major update that makes it easier for users to multitask. WhatsApp video calls are quite popular in the subcontinent, allowing users to make video calls on all kinds of device platforms with ease and with lower data consumption. Now WhatsApp is preparing to give the video calling feature a huge boost with a Picture-in-Picture mode. The feature is only coming to iPhones for now and is still in beta testing mode.
Based on a report from WABetaInfo, the latest beta version of WhatsApp now allows users to continue their video calls in a floating window while using other apps. The floating window shows a larger view of your caller and a small view of you. The feature is based on the official iOS APIs and according to the reports, it can also be hidden.
WhatsApp Video calls in floating window
Picture-in-Picture is nothing new to WhatsApp on iOS; the messenger app already uses floating windows to play YouTube videos and other video links from social media platforms. Until now, the video calls only worked if the user was within range of WhatsApp. Once the user exits WhatsApp during the video call, the window will disappear and the caller will see the video paused on the other end.
This update allows users to continue video calls even after they leave WhatsApp. The floating windows, as seen in the screenshot, are very small and good enough for making quick payments and checking something in the background.
Please note that this is a beta feature for now, so it may take a while to roll out to everyone. Those already testing beta versions of apps in the iOS TestFlight program can experience the feature immediately.
On the other hand, WhatsApp recently rolled out a feature called Message Yourself that allows users to have a chat window to take notes or post reminders in the form of chats.