WhatsApp, the world’s most popular over-the-top (OTT) messaging and communication service, is set to make a new service enhancement that will make video calling more efficient and convenient for users. According to a report by WhatsApp beta tracker WABetaInfo, the Meta-owned service is currently testing a picture-in-picture (PiP) mode for in-app video calls on its app for iOS users. The move would allow users to continue a video call while using other apps at the same time.

What does PiP mode mean for WhatsApp

To be sure, WhatsApp currently allows users to use other apps while on a video call. However, this will automatically suspend the camera’s access to WhatsApp, meaning users won’t be able to use video if they switch to another app or service — such as replying to an urgent message or approving a recording in your smart home security app’s notifications — while on a video call.

All of that looks set to change, making WhatsApp video calls work closer to how Apple’s own FaceTime video calling and conferencing app works on iOS. The latter already allows PiP mode to work between video calls, which in turn allows users to use other apps and services during the call itself.

This feature joins a number of new WhatsApp features such as the ability for users to join group calls using a link, adding up to 32 participants to a single video call, and the ability to mute or message a video call participant while the call is in progress. The same should further improve the PiP mode in video calls.

Since the feature is still in beta, reports expect it won’t launch until at least early next year — when it’s likely to roll out as a stable feature for both Android and iOS.