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Apple Music MiniPlayer on Mac: Setup & Floating Controls
Apple Music has its own MiniPlayer. If you want a smaller playback window, try that built-in option first. This guide explains the setup and the differences to consider before adding a separate companion.
Open Apple Music MiniPlayer
- Open Music on your Mac and start a song.
- Choose Window → Switch to MiniPlayer.
- Move the pointer over the artwork to reveal playback controls.
For a smaller view, open the More menu and choose Hide Large Artwork. Use Show Large Artwork to expand it again. Menu labels can vary with your macOS version.
Keep MiniPlayer above other windows
In Music, choose Settings → Advanced and enable Keep MiniPlayer on top of all other windows. You do not need another app for this setting. See Apple’s MiniPlayer instructions for the current interface.
MiniPlayer, desktop widget or floating companion?
| Experience | What to consider |
|---|---|
| Music MiniPlayer | Music’s own playback window. A sensible first choice when you listen in Music. |
| macOS desktop widget | Added through the system widget gallery. Look for an app that explicitly provides a native widget. |
| Floating companion | A separate app with its own artwork, window and customization. Check your exact player before choosing one. |
Where LyricFlow fits
We make LyricFlow, a floating music companion for Mac. Its Free version has no expiry and brings album artwork and available playback controls into a resizable window. Optional Pro customization is US$3 once.
LyricFlow is a companion to your music player, not a streaming subscription or a native WidgetKit widget. Public lyrics are not included. Player information and controls vary by source, connection and track.
Explore LyricFlow’s layouts Compare Free and Pro
Check your own workflow
Try your usual playback controls and window placement with your own displays. If Apple’s built-in window already does what you need, keep using it. Choose an additional companion for a layout or appearance you prefer, rather than for an unnecessary second playback window.
Also listening in Spotify? Read our Spotify MiniPlayer on Mac guide.