Understanding the YouTube Picture-in-Picture Feature
Last August, Google made a significant change to the Google Messages app by removing a beloved feature that allowed users to view YouTube videos directly within a chat. This feature provided the convenience of a small video player, allowing users to watch videos while staying engaged in their conversations. No longer did you need to switch back and forth between apps to enjoy your friends’ video recommendations.
Exciting Developments in Google Messages
There’s good news on the horizon! Recent discoveries in Google Messages version v20250319 beta indicate that Google might be working on bringing this feature back. Code sleuth Assembledebug found new strings hinting at the re-introduction of the picture-in-picture video player. These strings suggest that functionalities like ‘play’ and ‘pause’ might soon make a comeback. However, it is still unclear if users will receive the same seamless experience as before.
Speculations and Future Prospects
Google has not clarified why the feature was removed in the first place. It’s possible that low usage or a strategic decision regarding YouTube Premium subscriptions could be factors. The app originally included this feature in 2022 but pulled it back in 2024. This trend seems to occur roughly every two years, which means a full return might not materialize until 2026. However, given the current indications, we may see this multitasking capability reintegrated into Google Messages sooner rather than later, enhancing overall usability for users who love sharing and discussing videos.
