Instagram’s new Picture-in-Picture (PiP) test for Reels is being hailed as a win for multitasking, but it also represents a significant step forward for accessibility. This feature can provide a more flexible and less demanding experience for users with diverse needs.
For individuals who use assistive technologies or need to reference information in another app while watching a video, PiP is a crucial tool. For example, a user could watch a tutorial in a floating window while operating another application, or follow along with a signed video while reading related text. It lowers the cognitive load of constantly switching between full-screen apps.
The ability to keep content on-screen can also benefit users who process information at different paces, allowing them to pause and interact with other elements on their device without losing the video context entirely. The feature, currently in a limited trial, can be disabled for those who find it distracting.
This move toward a more accessible interface is complemented by the launch of a new, optimized iPad app. The app’s cleaner layout and support for larger fonts and screen readers on a bigger display further demonstrate a commitment to making the platform usable for everyone.