Google appears to be preparing to reinstate the popular YouTube miniplayer within its Messages app. After discontinuing the feature last year, Google seems to be revisiting its decision, aiming to create a more seamless experience for sharing and viewing videos directly within chat conversations.
The YouTube miniplayer originally allowed users to watch videos within Messages without needing to switch apps. Introduced in 2022, the feature was quietly removed in 2024, forcing users to open videos in the YouTube app. The removal garnered mixed reactions; while some users preferred the direct access to the YouTube app, many missed the convenience of the integrated miniplayer.
Recent analysis of app teardowns by researcher AssembleDebug at Android Authority suggests the feature’s potential return. Code discovered within the latest beta versions of Messages hints at the development of an updated picture-in-picture player specifically for YouTube links. Messages beta version 20250319 reveals code strings that directly reference YouTube.
This aligns with YouTube’s own miniplayer redesign from late 2024, which introduced improved resizing, repositioning, and multitasking capabilities. While AssembleDebug managed to reactivate the picture-in-picture player in Messages using an activity toggle, videos were not playable during testing. However, this suggests a strong intention to restore the functionality.
Google’s apparent move to bring back the miniplayer indicates responsiveness to user feedback. While there’s no official announcement regarding a release date, and it remains unclear whether users will have the option to disable the feature, the potential return is a positive sign.
For the millions of Android users who depend on Messages, this seemingly minor update could significantly enhance the user experience. Coupled with the recent transition to RCS messaging and features like message unsending, the return of the YouTube miniplayer could further refine the app’s overall functionality.
