YouTube’s Picture-in-Picture (PiP) feature allows users to continue watching videos in a small floating window while multitasking. However, subtitles — an essential accessibility and learning feature — are currently unavailable in PiP. This limits the usefulness of PiP for users who rely on captions (e.g., language learners, deaf/hard-of-hearing audiences, or people watching without sound).

Millions of YouTube users enable subtitles for better comprehension, especially in noisy environments or when learning a new language. Without subtitles in PiP, they are forced to either stay in full screen or lose comprehension while multitasking.

• Improve accessibility and inclusivity of YouTube PiP mode.

• Increase engagement time by allowing users to multitask without losing subtitle support.

• Strengthen YouTube’s value proposition for education and global audiences.

• Language learners who rely on subtitles for comprehension.

• Deaf and hard-of-hearing users.

• People who often watch videos without sound (commuters, office workers, parents with kids).

How can YouTube integrate subtitles into PiP mode without cluttering the tiny floating window or disrupting usability?

Design the UI flow and interactions for PiP with subtitles, including:

1. Subtitle toggle inside PiP mode.

2. Subtitle display in a way that’s legible in small windows.

3. Options to customize subtitle size/placement in PiP.

4. Smooth sync with video playback (pause, rewind, resume).

5. Handling edge cases (e.g., long lines, overlapping screen elements).

• PiP is already small — subtitles must be minimal but readable.

• Keep subtitle styling consistent with YouTube brand but allow lightweight customization.

• Must work across mobile + tablet PiP, considering varying window sizes.

• Avoid overloading users with settings — balance simplicity with flexibility.