Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode in Google Chrome allows you to watch videos in a floating window while browsing other tabs or applications. This guide will help you enable and use Chrome PiP mode across different platforms, troubleshoot common issues, and explore supported sites and extensions.
Quick Fixes to Try First
- Ensure your Chrome browser is updated to the latest version.
- Restart Chrome and your device to resolve temporary glitches.
- Check if the video website supports PiP mode.
Enabling Chrome Picture-in-Picture Mode
Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Open Google Chrome and go to chrome://settings.
- Navigate to Privacy and Security.
- Click on Site Settings.
- Scroll down to find Additional content settings and click to expand it.
- Select Picture-in-Picture and ensure it is toggled on.
Android
- Open the Chrome app on your Android device.
- Tap the three-dot menu icon and select Settings.
- Scroll down to Site settings.
- Find and tap on Picture-in-Picture.
- Ensure PiP is enabled.
iOS
The Picture-in-Picture feature is not natively supported on Chrome for iOS, but you may use Safari for PiP functionality on iOS devices.
Using Picture-in-Picture Mode
Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Play a video on a supported website like YouTube.
- Right-click the video to open the context menu.
- Select Picture in Picture from the menu.
- The video will pop out in a floating window.
Keyboard Shortcut: (Windows) Alt + P | (Mac) Option + P
Android
- Play a video in the Chrome app.
- Press the device’s home button; the video should minimize into a floating window.
PiP Controls and Features
Once in PiP mode, you can:
- Resize the floating window by dragging its edges.
- Move the window around your screen.
- Pause, play, or close the video using the controls on the floating window.
Supported Sites for Chrome PiP
Chrome Picture-in-Picture supports many popular video sites, such as:
- YouTube
- Netflix
- Vimeo
- Facebook Watch
Note that some websites may have restrictions or require you to enable PiP through their own settings.
Using PiP Extensions
For additional features or unsupported sites, consider using a Chrome extension:
- Visit the Chrome Web Store.
- Search for Picture-in-Picture extensions.
- Install a reputable extension such as Picture-in-Picture Extension (by Google).
- Enable and configure the extension as needed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you’re having trouble with Chrome PiP mode, try these steps:
- Ensure the website supports PiP or use an extension.
- Check your browser settings as outlined in the “Enabling Chrome Picture-in-Picture Mode” section.
- Clear your browser cache by navigating to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data.
- Disable conflicting extensions by visiting chrome://extensions.
Conclusion
Chrome’s Picture-in-Picture mode is a convenient feature that enhances multitasking by allowing you to watch videos while browsing. By following these steps, you can easily enable and use PiP across different platforms and resolve any issues that arise. Enjoy seamless video playback with Chrome’s floating video feature!