Being able to multitask while on a WhatsApp video call is a useful feature for iPhone users. It allows you to access other apps on your phone without disconnecting the video call. However, by default, exiting the WhatsApp app will end the video call. So how can you keep the call going while using other apps?
Understanding WhatsApp’s Background Restrictions
The main reason you can’t use other apps during a WhatsApp video call is due to background restrictions imposed by iOS. For privacy and security reasons, iOS limits how apps can run in the background. This prevents them from performing unwanted tracking or draining your battery.
By default, WhatsApp is not able to run video calls in the background. As soon as you switch to another app, the video call is disconnected. This is frustrating if you want to briefly check another app while remaining on the video call.
Using Picture-in-Picture Mode
Fortunately, there is a workaround using Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode. This feature allows you to view a small floating window of the video call atop other apps. Here are the steps to enable it:
- Start a WhatsApp video call as normal.
- Swipe up from the bottom edge to open Control Center.
- Long press on the screen recording control. This will enable PiP mode.
- You will now see the video call in a small window. You can drag it around and reposition it.
- Open any other app you want. The video call will remain floating above it.
This essentially “pauses” the video call and shrinks it down. It will continue playing in the mini player without disconnection. You can now freely use other apps while maintaining the call.
Resizing the Floating Window
You can resize the floating PiP window for optimal visibility:
- Pinch out with two fingers to enlarge the floating window.
- Pinch in to shrink it back down.
Find a size that allows you to see the other caller while leaving enough screen space to use other apps.
Repositioning the Floating Window
The small floating PiP window can overlay any part of the screen. Reposition it by:
- Touch and hold the window then drag it around.
- Release when you find an optimal place for it.
- You can reposition it anytime during your call.
Using Sidecar on a Mac
If you have a Mac computer, there is another workaround using Sidecar. This feature lets you extend your iPhone’s display to your Mac. Here’s how it enables using other iPhone apps during a WhatsApp call:
- On your Mac, enable Sidecar from Control Center.
- On your iPhone, swipe up and select your Mac as the secondary screen.
- Your iPhone screen will now appear on your Mac.
- Start the WhatsApp video call from your iPhone as normal.
- On your Mac, click the iPhone screen to open it full size.
- The call will appear here. You can now freely use your iPhone while it plays on your Mac screen.
This takes advantage of Sidecar to show the call on your Mac instead of the iPhone. You can then continue using your iPhone without interruption.
Mirroring Your Screen
An alternative is to mirror your iPhone’s screen on the Mac instead of extending it. Do this by:
- Open Control Center on your iPhone and enable Screen Mirroring.
- Select your Mac as the destination.
- Your iPhone screen will now mirror to the Mac display.
With screen mirroring, you’ll see the exact same screen on both devices. This also allows using other iPhone apps during a call, since the call is visible on your Mac.
Using Headphones or Speakers
Another workaround is using headphones or external speakers during your WhatsApp call:
- Connect headphones or external speakers to your iPhone.
- Start a WhatsApp video call.
- The call audio will now play through your headphones/speakers.
- You can mute the microphone on your iPhone if needed.
- Feel free to use other apps on your iPhone while the call audio plays externally.
Because the audio plays externally, you can freely multitask on your iPhone without interrupting the call. The video will disconnect once you switch apps, but the audio remains playing.
Using Bluetooth Audio
You can also use wireless Bluetooth audio devices:
- Connect AirPods, Bluetooth headphones, or a wireless speaker.
- The call audio will switch over once connected.
- You can now multitask while hearing the call through Bluetooth.
Again, just mute your iPhone’s microphone if needed. This lets you hear the call from another source while using other apps.
Switching Between Apps
Once you have enabled one of the above workarounds, you can freely switch between apps during the call:
- Swipe up from the bottom edge to open the app switcher.
- Tap any app icon to switch to that app.
- The call will persist in the background or on your external device.
- Continue switching between apps as needed during your call.
Make sure to check the video window or external audio source periodically. Let the other person know if you are multitasking and briefly away from the video.
Multitasking Limitations
While the above methods work, there are some limitations to keep in mind:
- The WhatsApp call may disconnect if both devices lose internet connectivity.
- Battery life will drain faster with sustained multitasking.
- Excessive multitasking may degrade call performance.
- The other caller may feel ignored if you multitask too much.
Balance your other app usage appropriately. Let the other caller know if you need to briefly switch apps so they aren’t left wondering.
Conclusion
Using Picture-in-Picture, Sidecar, headphones, or Bluetooth allows you to multitask during WhatsApp video calls on iPhone. This provides a better calling experience when you need to check other apps without fully disconnecting the call. Use the capabilities respectfully so as not to ignore who you are talking with. Follow the tips outlined and you’ll be multitasking with WhatsApp calls in no time.