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Why Is the URL in the Address Bar Not Changing?

How Miniplayer Works with URLs​

The Miniplayer feature allows users to navigate your website while keeping a video playing in an iframe. However, when navigating to a cross-origin page (a page on a different domain or subdomain), the address bar cannot be updated with the new URL due to browser restrictions.

For example:

  • If the Miniplayer is active on www.example.com and the user navigates to checkout.example.com, the address bar will remain unchanged and display www.example.com instead of the actual page (checkout.example.com).

Why Doesn't the URL Change?​

This behavior is due to browser security policies designed to protect users from spoofing and other malicious activities. Specifically:

  • Iframe Isolation:
    Websites rendered inside an iframe cannot manipulate or update the parent page's URL when navigating across origins.
  • Cross-Origin Restrictions:
    Navigating between domains within an iframe does not notify the parent browser window, keeping the address bar unchanged.

How to Handle This Limitation​

1. Avoid Cross-Origin Navigation Inside the Miniplayer​

If possible, avoid navigating to a different domain or subdomain while the Miniplayer is active. Keeping all navigation within the same origin ensures a consistent experience.

2. Use Alternative Navigation Strategies​

When cross-origin navigation is unavoidable, consider the following strategies:

  • Open External Links in a New Tab:
    Use the target="_blank" attribute for links that lead to a different domain. This prevents the iframe limitation from impacting the user's navigation experience.

  • Close the Miniplayer During Navigation:
    Use the target="_top_" attribute for links that lead to a different domain. This prevents the iframe limitation from impacting the user's navigation experience. It will however close the miniplayer when navigating to a different domain.

3. Disable Miniplayer​

Unfortunately, sometimes best option for most optimal user experience would be to disable the Miniplayer