WhatsApp supports picture-in-picture (PiP) during video calls — the call shrinks into a small floating window so you can keep chatting while using other apps. Here’s how to enable and use it on Android and iPhone.
Short Answer: WhatsApp video calls support picture-in-picture natively on Android 8+ and iPhone. During a video call, tap the minimize button or press the home button to shrink the call to a floating window. The other person can still see and hear you while you use other apps.
WhatsApp PiP on Android
On most Android phones running Android 8.0 or above, PiP works automatically during WhatsApp video calls.
Method 1: Swipe Up or Press Home
- Start a WhatsApp video call
- Press the home button or swipe up (gesture navigation) to go to your home screen
- The video call automatically minimizes to a small floating window in the corner
- You can drag the floating window anywhere on screen
- Tap the window to return to the full-screen call
📸 SCREENSHOT NEEDED: Android home screen with a small WhatsApp video call floating window in the corner while another app is open
Method 2: Tap the Minimize Button in WhatsApp
During the call, tap anywhere on the screen to show the call controls. Look for a minimize icon (two arrows pointing inward) — tapping it shrinks the call to PiP mode immediately.
If PiP Isn’t Working on Android
Make sure WhatsApp has permission to use picture-in-picture:
- Go to Settings → Apps → WhatsApp → Advanced (or App info)
- Tap Picture-in-picture
- Enable the toggle
📸 SCREENSHOT NEEDED: Android App settings for WhatsApp showing Picture-in-picture toggle enabled
WhatsApp PiP on iPhone
WhatsApp PiP works on iPhones running iOS 14 or later.
- Start a WhatsApp video call
- Swipe up from the bottom (or press the home button on older iPhones) during the call
- The video call minimizes to a floating window
- Drag it to any corner of the screen
- Tap it to return to the full call view
📸 SCREENSHOT NEEDED: iPhone screen showing a WhatsApp video call minimized to PiP window while the home screen is visible
PiP quick steps:
Android → Press home during call → floating window appears | iPhone → Swipe up during call → floating window appears | Both: tap window to maximize
Warning: During PiP mode, your camera is still active — the other person can still see you. If you’re doing something private on your phone, be aware that you’re still on camera. Mute the camera first if needed: tap the PiP window → tap the camera toggle.
What You Can Do While on a WhatsApp PiP Call
- Browse other apps, reply to messages, check social media
- Look up information during the call without needing to end it
- Navigate on Google Maps while someone gives you directions over video
- Share photos from your gallery during the call
FAQ
Does PiP work for WhatsApp voice calls too?
WhatsApp voice calls don’t need PiP — audio continues playing when you switch apps regardless. PiP is specific to video calls where the visual window needs to stay visible.
Can I make the PiP window bigger?
On Android, you can’t resize the PiP window directly. On iPhone, you can pinch to resize it (pinch out to make larger, pinch in to shrink).
The PiP window disappeared — is the call still active?
If the window disappears, the call may still be active but the window was dismissed. Pull down your notification bar — you’ll see a “Tap to return to call” notification. Tap it to bring the call back up.
Quick checklist:
- ✅ Press home button during a WhatsApp video call to enter PiP mode
- ✅ Enable PiP permission for WhatsApp in Android App settings if it’s not working
- ✅ Mute your camera before switching apps if privacy matters
- ✅ Tap the notification bar to return to call if the PiP window disappears
More WhatsApp Tips ↗ ↗Best Video Calling Apps
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s PiP mode turns your phone into a proper multitasking device during calls. Whether you’re looking up directions, checking a message, or browsing photos to share — just press home and the call floats alongside everything else. Check our full WhatsApp tips guide for more tricks.