Google is set to reintroduce a popular YouTube feature that was previously removed from the Google Messages app. Last August, the company eliminated the ability for users to share YouTube links that allowed for a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) video player. This feature enabled recipients to watch YouTube videos without leaving their text conversations, allowing for seamless discussions about the content being shared. The PiP feature enhanced user experience by allowing participants in a group chat to click on a YouTube link and view the video while simultaneously chatting.
This functionality eliminated the need to switch between the Messages app and YouTube, leading to a more convenient and efficient communication process. At the time of removal, Google cited the benefit of reducing the hassle of app switching as a primary reason for the feature’s existence. Recent discoveries in the beta version of Google Messages (v20250319) indicate that the PiP YouTube video player may be making a comeback. Code sleuth AssembleDebug found new strings that suggest the functionality is being revived, including buttons for pausing and playing the YouTube video.
Although AssembleDebug successfully launched the video player during a chat, the PiP window is not yet fully functional. The next step lies with Google, which now has to decide whether to finalize its return. Understanding why the feature was initially removed could offer insights into its possible revival. Originally introduced in 2022 and removed in 2024, the feature’s sporadic updates have led to speculation about its timeline.
However, given the current progress, there is hope that its return could happen sooner than expected, potentially enhancing multitasking within Google Messages once again.