Picture-in-Picture Extension Review — Watch Any Video in a Floating Window While You Work
Google's official Picture-in-Picture extension lets you pop any video out of its webpage into a small floating window that stays on top of all other windows. You can continue watching while working in other tabs, writing in Google Docs, or browsing research — the video follows you across the browser. It works on YouTube, Vimeo, and most HTML5 video players.
Install on Chrome Web Store →Key Features
One click on the extension icon pops the active video out into a floating window that stays visible over other tabs and applications. The video continues playing while you switch to any other tab or application.
The floating window is resizable and can be repositioned anywhere on screen. Placing it in a corner allows you to watch a tutorial or reference video while working full-screen in another application.
Playback controls (play, pause, skip) work on the floating window — no need to click back to the original tab to control the video.
Works across YouTube, Vimeo, Twitch, and most HTML5 video players. The extension is built by Google and stays reliably updated as browser video handling evolves.
Who Is It For
Creators who use YouTube or other video platforms as reference while working — watching a tutorial while following along in another app, monitoring a live stream while editing, or reviewing competitor content while taking notes in a separate document. The floating window removes the need to constantly switch tabs.
If you give full attention to video content when watching — without simultaneous work — picture-in-picture adds no practical value. It's specifically useful for creators who multitask with video as a background reference.
Pros and Cons
- ✅ Official Google extension — stable and well-maintained
- ✅ Works across most HTML5 video platforms
- ✅ Completely free
- ❌ Some streaming services (Netflix, Disney+) block picture-in-picture functionality
- ❌ The floating window has limited size options on some displays
Pricing
The Picture-in-Picture Extension is completely free. No paid tier, no account required.
Summary
Worth installing for creators who regularly reference video content while working. The floating window eliminates constant tab switching when following along with tutorials or monitoring content while multitasking. One of the most practically useful free browser extensions available.