Browsing with dozens of open tabs is the norm for most of us. Important pages often vanish into the tab jungle. Firefox’s new Mini Window aims to change that by letting you keep a vital page in constant view.
What the Mini Window actually does
The feature works like picture-in-picture for websites. You can pull a tab—or a selected section of a page—into a compact overlay. This window stays on top of everything else you have open. It is currently available only in Firefox Nightly, the browser’s early beta channel. Mozilla plans to roll it out to the stable version later this month.
To try it, install Firefox Nightly on your computer. Then, right-click any tab header and select “Move Tab” followed by “Move to Mini Window.” The tab shrinks and drops into the lower right corner by default. You can drag the title bar to reposition it anywhere on screen. You can also resize it by dragging the window edges.
How it compares to what you already have
Most browsers let you snap windows side-by-side or use separate desktops. Mini Window is different because it floats above all other windows. It does not replace side-by-side viewing. Instead, it prioritizes one tab in a full-size window while keeping another page visible at all times. This is helpful if you are reading a long document but need to reference a chat or a form simultaneously.
On a small laptop screen, this is especially useful. You can keep a reference doc in the Mini Window while writing in the main view. The Mini Window has no buttons by default—no back, forward, or refresh. These appear only when you hover over the window. This keeps the view clean and focused.
What it means for you
If you frequently research while you write, or if you follow a video call while working on a spreadsheet, this feature cuts down on window switching. It keeps your secondary source in view without taking up half your screen. Because it lives in Nightly now, you can test it out immediately if you like living on the bleeding edge. When it hits the stable release, it will become a default tool for anyone who multitasks in the browser.
Why this matters
The Mini Window reflects a shift toward always-on reference material. Instead of alt‑tabbing between apps or snapping windows, you keep the info you need literally on top. It is a small change, but it can reduce the mental load of managing multiple tabs. Watch for Chrome or Edge to copy the idea if it proves popular. Mozilla will likely add more controls, such as custom shortcuts or the ability to pin specific sections of a page, as the feature matures.
Key facts
- Firefox Nightly now includes a "Mini Window" feature
- The feature displays a tab as a floating, always-on-top overlay
- It works like picture-in-picture, but for websites
- Currently only available in the early beta channel
- Mozilla plans a stable release later this month
Our analysis
The Mini Window is not a replacement for tab management. It is an addition for specific multitasking moments. Power users who keep dozens of tabs open may not feel the benefit, but anyone who needs one secondary source constantly in view will appreciate the frictionless access. The hover‑activated buttons are a smart touch—they prevent the overlay from feeling like a permanent, button‑cluttered window. As browsers compete on productivity features, expect more options to keep reference material visible without losing screen real estate.
A practical example
Say you are writing a story about Android battery life. You have the main article open in a full Firefox window. You open the Mini Window with a battery‑saving tips article. The tips stay on top as you type, so you can glance at a suggestion without losing your place. When you need to check a link within the tips, it opens in the main window, keeping your workflow smooth.
What to watch next: Mozilla will likely push the stable build within weeks. Once live, test how the feature handles multiple Mini Windows open at once. If you rely on constant reference material, this could become your new go‑to multitasking tool.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Mini Window on Android?
No, the feature is currently limited to the desktop version of Firefox Nightly. There is no word yet on an Android release.
Will the Mini Window work with all websites?
The feature works on most sites, but some may block the overlay or restrict how the tab behaves. Standard pages should function without issues.
Do I need to enable any flags to use it?
No flags are required. The feature is turned on by default in Firefox Nightly once you update to the latest build.
Can I move the Mini Window to a second monitor?
Yes, you can drag the window to any display. It will stay on top of all windows across monitors, just as it does on a single screen.
What happens to links clicked inside the Mini Window?
Any link you click will open in the main Firefox view, not inside the Mini Window overlay. This keeps the reference page accessible while you follow new links.