Microsoft is testing a handy new feature in Edge Canary that makes multitasking with videos much easier.
The latest Canary build can now automatically open a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) window whenever a media-playing tab becomes fully hidden behind another application. Instead of leaving your video running out of sight, Edge keeps it visible in a floating window on your desktop.
Edge Gets Smarter About Video Playback
In a demonstration of the feature, a video playing in Edge instantly switched to Picture-in-Picture mode when the Windows Notepad app was maximized over the browser.
The transition happened automatically, with no need to manually enable PiP mode. As soon as the video tab was completely covered, Edge detected the change and opened a floating player window.
This creates a smoother experience for users who frequently switch between applications while watching videos.
Watch the feature in action:
Edge Canary now also supports the feature that automatically opens the picture-in-picture window when another app fully covers the tab playing media. In this video, you can see that the PiP window automatically opens when you maximize the Notepad app:https://t.co/S9HHNXCXb7 pic.twitter.com/LOLkVS31Mm
— Leopeva64 (@Leopeva64) June 6, 2026
A Useful Upgrade for Multitaskers
Picture-in-Picture has long been one of the most useful browser features, allowing videos to stay visible while you work in other apps. However, activating it usually requires manual action.
With this new feature, Edge removes that extra step.
The improvement could be particularly useful for:
- Watching tutorials while coding or designing
- Taking notes while viewing educational videos
- Following live streams while working
- Keeping video content visible during research sessions
- Monitoring meetings or presentations while using other applications
The automatic behavior makes multitasking feel more natural and effortless.
Bringing a Mobile-Like Experience to Desktop
Many smartphone users are already familiar with automatic Picture-in-Picture. On Android and iOS, supported video apps can shrink into a floating window when users leave the app.
Microsoft appears to be bringing a similar experience to Windows desktop users through Edge.
By automatically reacting when content becomes hidden, the browser helps ensure users never lose track of their videos.
Available Now in Edge Canary
The feature is currently being tested in Edge Canary, Microsoft’s experimental browser channel where upcoming features are evaluated before a wider release.
As with all Canary features, there is no guarantee it will reach the stable version of Edge. However, given its practical benefits and minimal complexity, it seems like a strong candidate for a future rollout.
Why It Matters
While this may seem like a small addition, it addresses a common annoyance for users who regularly watch videos while working.
Instead of manually launching Picture-in-Picture every time they switch applications, users can let Edge handle the process automatically. The result is a cleaner, more seamless multitasking experience that keeps important video content within view.
If Microsoft brings this feature to stable releases, it could quickly become one of Edge’s most appreciated productivity enhancements.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft continues to refine Edge with thoughtful features that improve everyday usability. The new automatic Picture-in-Picture behavior in Edge Canary is a great example of that approach.
By automatically popping videos into a floating window when another app covers the browser, Edge makes multitasking simpler and more convenient. It’s a small change, but one that could have a big impact for users who regularly juggle videos and productivity apps.
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