The latest version of Google’s web browser includes a “picture-in-picture” function allowing you to play a video in a remote window.
A few days ago, Google updated its Google Chrome web browser to version 69 with a host of new features. Among them, the Picture-in-Picture mode has gone relatively unnoticed. And for good reason, the functionality allowing you to play a video in a remote window while continuing to browse is not activated by default.
The functionality is still experimental and you have to go through hidden configuration menus to take advantage of it.
1. Check the version of Google Chrome
Since Google Chrome’s Picture-in-Picture mode is only available in version 69 of the browser, first check that you have the latest updated version.
To do this, open the Google Chrome menu, then in Help, choose About Google Chrome.
If your browser is not up to date, a button should appear to allow you to download and install the latest version of the program. You can also install the latest update manually by downloading the installation file.
- Download Google Chrome 69 – 32 bits for Windows (Free)
- Download Google Chrome 69 – 64 bits for Windows (Free)
- Download Google Chrome 69 for Mac (Free)
- Download Google Chrome 69 for Linux (Free)
2. Activate settings
The activation of the Picture-in-Picture function is done through hidden menus. Two parameters need to be changed.
In the address bar of the browser, copy and paste the following two parameters in turn and change their status from Default to Enabled.
- chrome: // flags / # enable-surfaces-for-videos
- chrome: // flags / # enable-picture-in-picture
Once these two parameters are activated, restart your browser by clicking on Relaunch Now.
3. Play a video in Picture-in-Picture
Go to your favorite site to watch a streaming video. Start playing a video then right click on the video currently playing and select PIP Mode.
The reading should open in a floating window that you can move to anywhere on the screen.
