YouTube parameter to call split view for 360 degree video

Question

I'm trying to find out if the "VR mode" with two eye splitview of some YouTube 360 videos can also be called via a parameter or via the API?

Right now when playing back a #360 video on my iPhone I'm able to move around in 360 degrees but the splitview is not an option.

If I do the same thing on an Android Device I have an option to enter "splitview" for Google Cardboard.

Is it possible to trigger this splitview mode also from the iPhone or if a #360 video is embedded into a website with a parameter or via the API?

Answer 1

Nope, it's impossible. You need to use third party app.

Google has been slow in general when it comes to rolling out support for the iPad’s headlining features. Users are still unable to view videos with the official YouTube app using the handy Picture in Picture mode, not to mention Split View.

The good news is that there are iPad apps available that allow you to enjoy YouTube videos with both Split View and Picture and Picture support in tow. In fact, CornerTube and YouPlayer are two helpful apps that come to mind. CornerTube focuses primarily on Picture in Picture mode, and YouPlayer is an outright replacement for the YouTube app, bringing Split View, Picture in Picture mode and other handy features to the fore.

Answer 2

According to the YouTube Help Docs, Google Cardboard split screen playback is only available on Android through the official YouTube app. It is not available on iPhone or embedded videos with the iFrame API.

Android (notice the cardboard icon):

iOS (no cardboard icon to enable split screen video):

There are known defects and enhancements to 360 degree video playback on mobile, and full functionality and support for these types of videos on mobile is on YouTube's roadmap.