As the world continues to adapt to remote work and virtual meetings, Zoom has become an essential tool for connecting with colleagues, friends, and family. One of the platform’s most useful features is the ability to create a mini window, allowing you to multitask while still participating in a meeting or video call. But how do you make a Zoom mini window, and what are the benefits of using this feature?
What is a Zoom Mini Window?
A Zoom mini window is a compact, floating video window that allows you to see the meeting or video call while still accessing other applications and windows on your computer. This feature is particularly useful when you need to reference documents, take notes, or work on a project while participating in a meeting.
Benefits of Using a Mini Window
Using a Zoom mini window can greatly enhance your productivity and meeting experience. Here are some of the benefits of using this feature:
- Multitasking: With a mini window, you can quickly reference notes, check emails, or work on a project while still participating in the meeting.
- Reduced distractions: By minimizing the main Zoom window, you can reduce distractions and avoid navigating away from the meeting.
- Improved focus: A mini window allows you to focus on the meeting while still having access to other important resources.
How to Create a Zoom Mini Window
Creating a Zoom mini window is a straightforward process that can be done in a few clicks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Method 1: Using the Minimize Button
- Join a meeting or start a video call: Begin by joining a meeting or starting a video call with others.
- Click the minimize button: Click the minimize button (-) in the top-right corner of the Zoom window.
- Drag and drop the window: Drag and drop the minimized window to any location on your screen, such as the corner or side of the screen.
- Resize the window (optional): You can resize the mini window by clicking and dragging the edges or corners of the window.
Method 2: Using the Floating Window Option
- Join a meeting or start a video call: Begin by joining a meeting or starting a video call with others.
- Click the Settings icon: Click the Settings icon ( gear icon) in the top-right corner of the Zoom window.
- Select Floating Window: Select the “Floating Window” option from the drop-down menu.
- Drag and drop the window: Drag and drop the floating window to any location on your screen, such as the corner or side of the screen.
- Resize the window (optional): You can resize the mini window by clicking and dragging the edges or corners of the window.
Customizing Your Mini Window
Once you’ve created a Zoom mini window, you can customize it to fit your needs. Here are some ways to customize your mini window:
Resize and Reorder
You can resize the mini window by clicking and dragging the edges or corners of the window. You can also reorder the mini window by dragging and dropping it to a different location on your screen.
Show or Hide Video
You can show or hide the video feed in the mini window by clicking the video camera icon. This can be useful if you want to focus on the audio or chat conversations.
Adjust Audio Settings
You can adjust the audio settings in the mini window by clicking the audio icon. This allows you to mute or unmute your microphone, adjust the volume, or switch to a different audio device.
Access Chat and Meetings
You can access the chat and meeting controls in the mini window by clicking the chat or meeting icons. This allows you to send messages, share files, or start a new meeting.
Tips and Tricks for Using a Mini Window
Here are some tips and tricks for using a Zoom mini window:
Use Multiple Monitors
If you have multiple monitors, you can create a mini window on one screen and use the other screen for other applications or windows.
Pin the Window
You can pin the mini window to a specific location on your screen, ensuring it stays in place even when you switch between applications.
Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Zoom provides a range of keyboard shortcuts that can be used to control the mini window. For example, you can use the “Ctrl + Shift + >” shortcut to toggle the mini window on and off.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Sometimes, you may encounter issues with the mini window feature. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:
Mini Window Not Appearing
If the mini window is not appearing, try restarting the Zoom application or checking the system settings to ensure that the feature is enabled.
Mini Window Not Resizing
If the mini window is not resizing, try clicking and dragging the edges or corners of the window, or checking the system settings to ensure that the window is not locked in place.
Audio or Video Issues
If you’re experiencing audio or video issues in the mini window, try checking the audio or video settings, restarting the Zoom application, or checking the system settings to ensure that the correct devices are selected.
By following these tips and tricks, you can master the art of creating and customizing a Zoom mini window, enhancing your productivity and meeting experience. Whether you’re a remote worker, student, or social butterfly, the mini window feature is an essential tool for staying connected and organized in today’s digital world.
What is a mini window in Zoom?
A mini window in Zoom is a smaller, movable window that allows you to keep an eye on your video call or meeting while simultaneously working on other tasks or applications on your computer. This feature is particularly useful for multitasking and enhancing productivity. By creating a mini window, you can minimize distractions and stay engaged with your virtual meeting or call while still being able to access other important tools or documents.
The mini window is a customizable feature in Zoom that can be resized and repositioned on your screen according to your preferences. You can move it to the corner of your screen, make it larger or smaller, or even hide it temporarily if needed. This level of flexibility makes it easy to adapt the mini window to your workflow and optimize your productivity.
How do I create a mini window in Zoom?
To create a mini window in Zoom, you’ll need to be in an active meeting or call. Once you’re in the meeting, click on the “Minimize Window” button located at the top right corner of the Zoom window. This will shrink the window down to a smaller size, allowing you to move it to any location on your screen. Alternatively, you can also use the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl + Shift + H” (Windows) or “Command + Shift + H” (Mac) to toggle the mini window on and off.
Once you’ve created the mini window, you can customize its size and position by dragging its borders or using the zoom buttons in the top right corner. You can also click and drag the mini window to move it to a different location on your screen. If you need to access the full Zoom window again, simply click on the “Restore” button at the top right corner of the mini window.
Can I customize the size and position of the mini window?
Yes, you can customize the size and position of the mini window to suit your needs. To resize the mini window, simply click and drag its borders to make it larger or smaller. You can also use the zoom buttons in the top right corner of the mini window to quickly switch between different sizes. To reposition the mini window, click and drag it to the desired location on your screen.
It’s worth noting that the mini window will remember its last position and size, so if you move or resize it during a meeting, it will retain those settings for future meetings. This allows you to personalize your Zoom experience and optimize your productivity over time.
Can I use the mini window on multiple monitors?
Yes, you can use the mini window on multiple monitors. If you have multiple monitors connected to your computer, you can move the mini window to any of the screens. This allows you to keep an eye on your Zoom meeting or call while working on other tasks on a separate screen. To move the mini window to a different screen, simply click and drag it to the desired screen.
Using the mini window on multiple monitors can be particularly useful if you need to reference multiple documents or applications during a meeting. By keeping the mini window on one screen and your other applications on the other screen, you can quickly switch between them as needed.
Can I hide the mini window temporarily?
Yes, you can hide the mini window temporarily if you need to focus on other tasks or applications. To hide the mini window, simply click on the “-” button at the top right corner of the window. This will minimize the window to a small icon, allowing you to quickly restore it when needed.
When you hide the mini window, you can still receive notifications and alerts from Zoom, so you’ll stay informed about any updates or changes to the meeting or call. To restore the mini window, simply click on the icon again.
Can I use the mini window on mobile devices?
No, the mini window is currently only available on desktop versions of Zoom. This means that you can only create and customize a mini window on your computer, not on your mobile device. However, Zoom does offer other features on mobile devices that can help you stay productive on-the-go.
If you need to multitask on your mobile device, you may want to consider using Zoom’s “PiP” (picture-in-picture) mode, which allows you to minimize the Zoom window and continue watching the video while using other apps.
Are there any limitations to using the mini window?
While the mini window is a powerful feature for enhancing productivity, there are some limitations to its use. For example, if you’re using a lower-resolution monitor or a smaller screen, the mini window may not be large enough to display all the necessary information. Additionally, if you’re using a virtual background or other advanced features, the mini window may not be able to display them correctly.
In general, it’s a good idea to experiment with the mini window and customize it to your needs to get the most out of this feature. If you encounter any issues or limitations, you can always contact Zoom’s support team for assistance.