TCL Roku TVs have been a popular choice among consumers in recent years, thanks to their impressive picture quality, sleek designs, and seamless integration with the Roku operating system. One feature that many users have been curious about is picture-in-picture (PiP) functionality. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of TCL Roku TVs and explore whether they support picture-in-picture, how to use it, and what limitations you might encounter.
What is Picture-in-Picture (PiP) and How Does it Work?
Picture-in-picture is a feature that allows you to watch two different video sources simultaneously on the same screen. This can be useful in various scenarios, such as:
- Watching a live sports game while keeping an eye on the news or weather forecast
- Monitoring a security camera feed while watching a movie
- Keeping an eye on a live TV show while browsing the internet or playing a game
PiP typically involves displaying a smaller video window on top of a larger video window or a static background. The smaller window can usually be moved around the screen, resized, and even swapped with the main video window.
Does TCL Roku TV Support Picture-in-Picture?
The answer to this question is a bit complicated. TCL Roku TVs do support picture-in-picture, but with some limitations. The feature is available on select TCL Roku TV models, and it’s not enabled by default. To use PiP on your TCL Roku TV, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- Your TV must be a 2018 model or later
- Your TV must be running Roku OS 8.1 or later
- You must have a Roku TV with a built-in tuner (i.e., a TV with an antenna input)
If your TCL Roku TV meets these requirements, you can enable picture-in-picture by following these steps:
- Press the * button on your Roku remote to open the Options menu
- Select “Picture-in-picture” from the menu
- Choose the video source you want to display in the smaller window (e.g., a live TV channel, a streaming app, or a connected device)
- Adjust the size and position of the smaller window to your liking
Limitations of Picture-in-Picture on TCL Roku TV
While picture-in-picture is a useful feature, it’s not without its limitations on TCL Roku TVs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- PiP only works with certain video sources, such as live TV channels, streaming apps, and connected devices. It’s not compatible with all apps or video content.
- The smaller video window can only be displayed on top of a live TV channel or a streaming app. You can’t display it on top of a static background or a different app.
- You can’t record or pause the video in the smaller window.
- PiP may not work with all external devices connected to your TV, such as DVD players or gaming consoles.
Alternative Solutions for Picture-in-Picture on TCL Roku TV
If your TCL Roku TV doesn’t support picture-in-picture or you’re not satisfied with the limitations of the feature, there are alternative solutions you can explore:
- Use a separate device: If you need to monitor multiple video sources simultaneously, you can use a separate device, such as a tablet or a smartphone, to display the secondary video feed.
- Use a different TV: If picture-in-picture is a critical feature for you, you may want to consider purchasing a different TV that offers more advanced PiP capabilities.
- Use a streaming device with PiP support: Some streaming devices, such as the NVIDIA Shield TV, offer picture-in-picture support. You can connect one of these devices to your TCL Roku TV to access PiP functionality.
Comparison of Picture-in-Picture Features on Different TVs
Here’s a comparison of picture-in-picture features on different TVs:
| TV Brand | Picture-in-Picture Support | Limitations |
| — | — | — |
| TCL Roku TV | Limited support on select models | Only works with certain video sources, can’t record or pause video in smaller window |
| Samsung QLED TV | Advanced PiP support with multiple video sources | None |
| LG OLED TV | Advanced PiP support with multiple video sources | None |
| Vizio Smart TV | Limited support on select models | Only works with certain video sources, can’t record or pause video in smaller window |
Conclusion
In conclusion, TCL Roku TVs do support picture-in-picture, but with some limitations. If you’re looking for a TV with advanced PiP capabilities, you may want to consider alternative options. However, if you’re already invested in the Roku ecosystem and want to take advantage of PiP on your TCL Roku TV, you can enable the feature by following the steps outlined above.
Remember to always check the specifications of your TV model and the Roku OS version to ensure that picture-in-picture is supported. Happy viewing!
What is Picture-in-Picture on TCL Roku TV?
Picture-in-Picture (PiP) is a feature on TCL Roku TV that allows you to watch two programs simultaneously. You can watch a live TV channel or a streaming service in the main window, while a second program, such as a different live TV channel or a streaming service, plays in a smaller window on top of the main window.
This feature is useful for multitasking, such as watching a sports game while keeping an eye on the news or a favorite TV show. PiP is also convenient for households with multiple viewers who want to watch different programs at the same time.
How do I enable Picture-in-Picture on my TCL Roku TV?
To enable Picture-in-Picture on your TCL Roku TV, go to the Settings menu and select “Picture-in-Picture.” From there, you can choose the input source for the main window and the smaller window. You can select from live TV channels, streaming services, or other connected devices.
Once you’ve selected the input sources, you can adjust the size and position of the smaller window to your liking. You can also choose to swap the main window and the smaller window, or turn off PiP altogether.
What are the requirements for using Picture-in-Picture on TCL Roku TV?
To use Picture-in-Picture on your TCL Roku TV, you’ll need a TCL Roku TV model that supports the feature. You’ll also need a Roku remote control and a stable internet connection. Additionally, you’ll need to have multiple input sources connected to your TV, such as live TV channels or streaming services.
It’s also worth noting that not all streaming services support PiP, so you may not be able to use the feature with certain apps. You can check the Roku website for a list of supported streaming services.
Can I use Picture-in-Picture with any streaming service on TCL Roku TV?
Not all streaming services support Picture-in-Picture on TCL Roku TV. Currently, only a limited number of streaming services, such as Netflix and Hulu, support PiP. You can check the Roku website for a list of supported streaming services.
If a streaming service doesn’t support PiP, you won’t be able to use the feature with that service. However, you can still use PiP with live TV channels or other connected devices.
How do I switch between the main window and the smaller window on TCL Roku TV?
To switch between the main window and the smaller window on TCL Roku TV, press the “*” button on your Roku remote control. This will swap the two windows, making the smaller window the main window and vice versa.
You can also use the Roku remote control to adjust the size and position of the smaller window. Simply press the “*” button and use the arrow buttons to move the window around the screen.
Can I use Picture-in-Picture with multiple live TV channels on TCL Roku TV?
Yes, you can use Picture-in-Picture with multiple live TV channels on TCL Roku TV. Simply select the live TV channel you want to watch in the main window, and then select a different live TV channel for the smaller window.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to have multiple live TV channels connected to your TV, either through an antenna or a cable or satellite subscription. You can also use the Roku TV’s built-in tuner to access over-the-air channels.
Is Picture-in-Picture available on all TCL Roku TV models?
No, Picture-in-Picture is not available on all TCL Roku TV models. The feature is only available on certain models, such as the 6-Series and 8-Series. You can check the TCL website to see if your TV model supports PiP.
If your TV model doesn’t support PiP, you won’t be able to use the feature. However, you can still use other features, such as multi-device control and voice control, to enhance your viewing experience.