Always-on-top notes on a Mac
macOS Stickies has a "Float on Top" option, but it doesn't follow you into full-screen Spaces and its notes stay on one Mac. With Chrome or Edge 116+ on macOS, this app opens a note in a Document Picture-in-Picture window that floats above other apps. Safari can edit notes but doesn't support the floating window yet.
Last updated September 2026
Open floating notes — free →How to do it
- Open the app in Chrome or Edge on your Mac.
- Create a note (N) and write — ⌘B, ⌘I and ⌘K for bold, italic and links.
- Click the pop-out button in the toolbar to float the note.
- Position it over the app you're working in; it stays on top when you switch apps.
- Use Export to save notes as .md files you can open in any Mac text editor.
Tips
- If you use full-screen apps, try opening the floating note before entering full screen and check it stays visible on your setup.
- Install as an app from Chrome's menu to launch it from the Dock or Spotlight like a native app.
- Moving from Stickies? Paste the text in — markdown-style lists and checkboxes are converted as you type.
FAQ
Why doesn't the floating window work in Safari?
Safari doesn't implement Document Picture-in-Picture at the time of writing. Notes still work normally in Safari; only the pop-out is hidden.
Do notes sync to my iPhone via iCloud?
No. Nothing is uploaded, so there's no iCloud sync. Notes stay in the browser on this Mac; move them with markdown export and import.
Is the floating note visible when I share my screen?
If you share your entire screen, other people can generally see any window on it, including the floating note. Sharing a single window or tab usually excludes it — check your meeting app's preview.