How to Use Picture-in-Picture Mode on Your Smart TV

30 March 2026

Smart TVs have revolutionized the way we watch content. Whether you're binge-watching your favorite series, catching a sports game, or keeping an eye on live news, modern TVs offer many features to enhance your viewing experience. One such feature is Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode—a game-changer for multitaskers who don’t want to miss a moment.

But how do you enable and use Picture-in-Picture mode on your Smart TV? That’s exactly what we’ll cover in this detailed guide.

📺 What is Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode?

Picture-in-Picture (PiP) is a multi-tasking feature that lets you watch two things simultaneously. It works by displaying one program in full screen while the second one appears in a small, resizable window in the corner of your screen.

Imagine watching a football match while keeping an eye on the latest stock market updates or gaming while tracking a cooking tutorial. Sounds cool, right? That’s the magic of PiP mode!

🛠 How Does PiP Mode Work?

PiP mode takes advantage of your Smart TV's ability to handle multiple sources of input simultaneously. The main content appears in full-screen mode, while the secondary content is displayed in a smaller window.

You can switch between the two sources, adjust the size of the secondary window, and even change its position to avoid obstructing important visuals on your primary screen.

However, the availability of Picture-in-Picture mode depends on your Smart TV brand and model. Some TVs support built-in PiP mode, while others require third-party apps or external devices.

🔍 Which Smart TVs Support Picture-in-Picture Mode?

Not all Smart TVs come with native PiP mode. Here are some brands and models that typically include it:

1. Samsung Smart TVs

Samsung has supported PiP for years, but the feature is more common in older models. Many QLED and Crystal UHD TVs still have a built-in PiP feature. However, Samsung has reduced direct PiP support on newer models due to software changes.

2. LG Smart TVs

LG Smart TVs running webOS usually support PiP. You can enable it via the Multi-View feature, allowing you to display different sources simultaneously.

3. Sony Smart TVs

Most Sony Smart TVs running Android TV or Google TV have a Multi-View or PiP function. This makes it easy to watch two different inputs at once.

4. TCL & Hisense Smart TVs

Many TCL and Hisense Roku-based and Google TV-based models offer PiP functionality, but support varies depending on the specific version of the TV.

5. Vizio Smart TVs

Some Vizio models support PiP, but newer models have switched focus to SmartCast, which does not prioritize this feature.

🔧 How to Enable PiP Mode on Different Smart TVs

📺 Using PiP Mode on a Samsung Smart TV

1. Press the "Menu" or "Settings" button on your remote.
2. Navigate to "System" > "PiP" (if available).
3. Toggle the PiP setting to "On".
4. Choose your secondary video source (e.g., HDMI, Cable TV).
5. Adjust the size and position of the PiP window using your remote.

📌 Note: Newer Samsung TVs may not have a direct PiP option, but you can achieve a similar effect using Multi-View.

📺 Using PiP Mode on an LG Smart TV (webOS)

1. Press the "Settings" button on your remote.
2. Go to "Multi-View" (in newer models).
3. Select the secondary source (e.g., HDMI, USB, or an app).
4. Adjust the PiP window position and size.

🔍 Tip: If your LG TV does not support native PiP mode, you can try casting a secondary source from your smartphone.

📺 Using PiP Mode on a Sony Smart TV (Google TV/Android TV)

1. Open any app or content you want in full screen.
2. Press the "Home" button.
3. Navigate to the "Apps" section and open another app.
4. The first app shrinks into a PiP window.
5. Resize or move the PiP window as needed.

💡 Keep in mind that some apps, like Netflix and YouTube, allow PiP mode only with premium subscriptions.

📺 Using PiP Mode on a TCL/Hisense Smart TV

1. Open the content you want in full screen.
2. Press the "Home" button.
3. Start a second app or content source.
4. Your first video will shrink into a PiP window automatically.

📌 Roku-based Smart TVs may offer limited PiP support, mainly through external HDMI inputs.

🔄 Alternative Ways to Use PiP Mode

If your Smart TV does not support PiP mode natively, here are some alternative solutions:

1. Use Streaming Devices

Devices like the Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, and Chromecast with Google TV support PiP mode. If your Smart TV lacks built-in PiP, you can try enabling it via these devices.

2. Use External Split-Screen Devices

Some HDMI splitters and external devices allow for dual-screen watching on a single TV. This can be a viable alternative if your TV doesn’t natively support PiP.

3. Use Your PC or Laptop

If you're using your Smart TV as a secondary monitor, many Windows and Mac devices allow PiP mode for apps like YouTube and Netflix. You can mirror your screen and use PiP this way.

❓ Common Problems & Troubleshooting PiP Mode

1. PiP Mode is Not Available on My Smart TV

✔ Solution: Check your TV’s manual or settings. Some manufacturers disable PiP in certain regions or models.

2. Sound is Coming from the Wrong Source

✔ Solution: Navigate to audio settings and manually select the source you want the sound to play from.

3. PiP Mode is Not Working with Streaming Apps

✔ Solution: Some apps restrict PiP to premium users (like YouTube and Netflix). You may need a paid subscription to use PiP.

4. PiP Window is Too Small

✔ Solution: Use your remote’s "Resize" or "PiP Position" options to adjust the window to a larger size.

🎬 Final Thoughts

Picture-in-Picture mode is an amazing feature, especially for news junkies, sports lovers, and multi-taskers. Whether your Smart TV has built-in PiP mode or you use workarounds like streaming devices, you can enjoy this feature to its fullest.

Now that you know how to enable and use PiP mode on your Smart TV, it's time to test it out! Grab your remote, turn on your favorite content, and multitask like a pro.