Multitasking has become a modern necessity. Whether you’re juggling remote work, digital learning, research, or everyday online activities, your browser is likely your main hub. But if you’re relying solely on tabs and full-screen windows, you’re probably not using your browser to its full potential. That’s where browser sub window come in an underrated tool that can dramatically change how you multitask online.
This blog dives into how browser sub windows can enhance your productivity and lists six practical ways to use them in your everyday routine. If you’ve ever felt buried under a mountain of tabs, this might just be your new favourite feature.
What Is a Browser Sub Window?
A browser sub window is a secondary window that can be popped out from the main browser interface. It operates independently but remains linked to your current browser session. You may have seen it when watching videos in picture-in-picture (PiP) mode or popping out a chat box or calendar event.
Unlike tabs or new browser windows, a browser sub window is usually smaller, more flexible, and designed to float on top of your main content. Its utility is enormous if you know how to leverage it.
Why Browser Sub Windows Matter in 2025
With hybrid work, online learning, and digital workflows on the rise, screen real estate is valuable. You can’t always afford a dual monitor setup, but you can squeeze out extra productivity from a single screen by using browser sub windows.
Rather than switching tabs or windows repeatedly, you keep your essential tools visible saving time, reducing mental load, and improving focus.
1. Host Video Calls Without Interrupting Your Workflow
Let’s start with something we all do: Zoom or Google Meet calls.
A common pain point during video meetings is the constant switching between your call and other work documents, presentations, or spreadsheets. It disrupts the flow, especially if you’re presenting or taking notes.
Here’s where a browser sub window saves the day. Most platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams allow you to pop out the video feed. You can move the sub window anywhere on your screen perfect for keeping eye contact with teammates while staying productive in your main tab.
Pro Tip:
Resize and position your browser sub window at the bottom corner so it doesn’t overlap your workspace.
2. Keep Messaging Apps Always in View
Are you constantly checking Slack, Teams, Discord, or WhatsApp Web while working?
Instead of opening them in a full tab (which you may forget about) or keeping them docked on your desktop, just open them in a browser sub window. It lets you monitor chats without distraction and ensures you don’t miss important messages during focused work.
It’s also perfect for customer support teams, digital marketers, or anyone who needs real-time communication without losing productivity.
3. Reference Materials Without Losing Focus
Students, content writers, researchers, and professionals often rely on multiple resources at once. But clicking back and forth between tabs is both frustrating and inefficient.
Using a browser sub window, you can open a research paper, guide, or article in a movable pop-up while continuing your primary task be it writing, programming, or designing.
It’s like having a virtual sticky note on your desktop except it’s dynamic and interactive.
Example:
Writing a blog post while referencing an SEO checklist in a browser sub window lets you stay aligned with best practices without shifting focus.
4. Compare Products or Dashboards in Real-Time
If you’ve ever compared two products, services, or plans online, you know how annoying it is to switch between tabs.
Open one product or service in your main browser and the other in a browser sub window. This makes price comparisons, reading reviews, or analysing performance metrics much easier.
It also works beautifully for marketers and analysts monitoring multiple dashboards simultaneously like Google Analytics and Shopify, or Facebook Ads and Google Ads.
5. Real-Time Preview for Designers and Developers
For front-end developers or UI/UX designers, browser sub windows are a lifesaver.
Let’s say you’re tweaking code and need to see changes in real time. You can open a live preview of your website or app in a browser sub window. This gives you a persistent view of the output while keeping your code editor in the main window.
No more toggling. No more waiting. Just fluid development.
Bonus:
Most modern IDEs and dev tools support live server previews that can be launched in a separate browser sub window.
6. Play Background Videos or Podcasts While Working
Not all multitasking is about work. Many people enjoy background music, videos, or podcasts while doing repetitive tasks like cleaning up emails, formatting documents, or editing designs.
Using browser sub windows, you can pop out YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts into a mini floating window. It stays on top of your browser tabs but doesn’t get in the way.
So, you can stay entertained or inspired without disrupting your workflow.
Also Read Here: PlayStation Plus Monthly Games [All Levels]- Win Big This Week
Bonus Ideas: How Else Can You Use Browser Sub Window?
Still looking for more ways to use this feature creatively? Try these ideas:
- Pop out your calendar to track upcoming meetings while working.
- Monitor stock prices or crypto charts live on your screen.
- Keep a checklist or Trello board visible while completing tasks.
- Open a translation tool when working with multilingual content.
- Run a timer or Pomodoro clock in a browser sub window to stay on track.
The possibilities are endless when you think beyond conventional browser use.
Are Browser Sub Windows Safe?
Yes, browser sub windows are safe as long as the content they display is secure. They don’t operate independently from your main session, so your existing browser security (HTTPS, privacy controls, etc.) still applies.
However, avoid opening sensitive data in a browser sub window in public or shared spaces. Always use trusted websites and be cautious about pop-ups from unknown sources.
How to Open a Browser Sub Window
Not sure how to try this feature? Here are some ways:
- YouTube: Right-click on a playing video and choose “Picture in Picture.”
- Google Meet: Click the three dots > “Open in a new window.”
- WhatsApp Web: Use Chrome Extensions like “Popup Chat for WhatsApp.”
- Custom Code (for devs): Use
window.open()JavaScript methods to create resizable sub windows. - Browser Extensions: Tools like “Panel Tabs” or “Popout for Chrome” let you create custom browser sub windows for any website.
Can Browser Sub Windows Make You a Better Multitasker?
So, back to the big question: Can you multitask better with browser sub windows? The answer is a definite yes.
They’re simple to use, save time, reduce tab chaos, and let you customise your screen layout without any special tools. Whether you’re a student, remote worker, creative professional, or entrepreneur, browser sub windows are worth adding to your digital toolbox.
Start with one or two of the use cases mentioned above. Once you get used to them, you’ll wonder how you ever worked without this little browser trick.
Quick Recap: 6 Things to Try with Browser Sub Windows
- Host video calls while working on documents.
- Keep messaging apps visible without losing focus.
- Reference material while writing or researching.
- Compare products or dashboards side-by-side.
- Preview websites or design updates live.
- Watch or listen to content without interrupting tasks.
Ready to Work Smarter?
If you’re serious about productivity in 2025, small tweaks like using browser sub windows can make a huge difference. Try them out today and take control of your digital environment.
Let us know which of these tips worked best for you or share your own sub window hacks in the comments!
