WhatsApp to soon support Picture in Picture feature for video calls
After adding support for sharing any types of files through the app, WhatsApp is again up with new exciting features to be rolled out soon. The WhatsApp beta version 2.17.265 for Android comes with a new feature which allows Picture in Picture for the video calls made through the app. Interestingly, the feature is enabled by default for the ones running Android O Developer’s preview in their smartphones.
The Picture in Picture function which is not new to us basically lets the user minimise the video call to a smaller window in order continue using WhatsApp for chats or other purpose simultaneously. It is still uncertain whether video call window will be fixed on the screen or can be dragged else where according to convenience. Also, its other features such as continuity of video calls even after minimizing the app are unknown as of now.
WhatsApp beta for Android 2.17.265: as announced, WhatsApp now supports PiP for video calls on Android O (8.0)!
Enabled by default! pic.twitter.com/bJqx8wykDw— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) July 19, 2017
Meanwhile, a new WhatsApp update for iOS will now allow YouTube videos to stream directly within the app. Currently when the users tap on a YouTube link, it takes them to the YouTube app in order to view the video. This new feature will again use the Picture in Picture functionality and will play the YouTube video directly in a separate window on the screen.
As per the report, the new feature will be available for iPhone 6, iPhone 6 plus, iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, iPhone 7 and 7 Plus as it will require a bigger screen size. However, we can expect it to roll out for other iOS devices eventually. There is no clue as of when it will be available publicly but it is said to rolled out soon for iOS which will be followed by Android and Windows there after.
We’ll keep you updated with more, Stay tuned!
