There are so many things you can do with Google Chrome that some of its best features never reach the surface of the user’s interface. One such great and powerful feature is using Chrome as a media player. Whether it is photos, videos, PDFs, PNGs, and anything in between, Chrome is very adept at many different file types. Furthermore, you can also open audio files in Chrome and then cast these items to any flat panel display or bluetooth audio device.

If you have media files on your computer, Chrome affords you the ability to drag and drop those files to a new tab. You can have multiple media files open and toggle between them, or split your screen to see both or several simultaneously. This can be very useful when doing a comparative analysis of films, print media, visual art, student work, and more. With all this maneuverability, creating your own multimedia presentations also becomes even more dynamic.

Here are three methods for using Google Chrome to playback media.

Method #1: Drag and drop

• Open Chrome.
• Select a file from any location (movie, image, PDF, etc.) and drag it into Google Chrome. The browser should move from your current window to the file you’ve dragged it to. Alternatively, you can open a new window and drag it there.

Method #2: Right click and open with

• Right-click the file.
• Select Open with > Google Chrome.

Method #3: Drag onto icon

• Drag the file onto the Google Chrome desktop icon to open it.

By following any of the above methods, you have a simple way to play media files within Google Chrome.

Be sure to check out our our short skills video “Using Google Chrome as a Media Player” (Note: You will need an OTIS for educators account to access these videos).

For more tips, tricks, and tools for teaching in and out of the classroom, check out more articles on the Teq Talk blog.

We also offer virtual professional development, training, and remote learning support for educators with OTIS for educators. Explore the technology, tools, and strategies that can spark student success — no matter where teaching or learning are happening.