Is there a way to make HTML5 video fullscreen?

html

fullscreen-api

cross-browser-compatibility

video-tag

byAlex Kataev·Nov 26, 2024

To make an HTML5 video fullscreen, requestFullscreen() is your go-to method. Simply call it on a video element via JavaScript. You can bind this action to a user interaction event, like clicking a button:

document.getElementById("fullscreenBtn").onclick = function() {
    var video = document.getElementById("videoElement");
    // Future's so bright, gotta wear shades 😎
    if (video.requestFullscreen) video.requestFullscreen(); // Everybody loves you, Chrome!
    else if (video.webkitRequestFullscreen) video.webkitRequestFullscreen(); // Safari, you're a tall glass of water!
    else if (video.msRequestFullscreen) video.msRequestFullscreen(); // IE/Edge, we still got love for you, homie
};

Browser compatibility entrusts us with handling different browser prefixes. Isn't life fun?

Cross-browser support: Dance with the one who brought you

Different browsers have differing support for the Fullscreen API. So remember, just as you adjust your dance moves to the music, adjust vendor prefix usage to match the browser:

Firefox 10+: mozRequestFullScreen() Chrome 15+: requestFullscreen() Safari 5.1+: webkitRequestFullscreen() Internet Explorer: msRequestFullscreen()

Basking in the security of knowing browsers enforce user-initiated actions is a silver lining. This helps prevent unscrupulous use of fullscreen.

How to handle: Browser differences, security measures, and libraries

Dancing with different browsers

Some browsers like to cut a special jig. For instance, Safari on iOS prefers webkitEnterFullscreen() for resizing inline video. Use caniuse.com for compatibility checks, and prep your fallback dance moves with native controls as needed.

The library tango

screenfull.js is a library that simplifies cross-browser compatibility. Trust me, it's easier than doing a tango on a tightrope.

Stomping bugs out and staying in step

Keep on top of those pesky critters – you're the exterminator of errors. Perversely, Chrome loves a good fullscreen toggle error confetti parade. Updating your dancing shoes with the latest API grooves can ensure your fullscreen show keeps rocking on.

Got more moves?

A user-initiated action is a must for fullscreen requests, as enforced by browsers.
Be a smooth operator with API variations and conditional logic to provide a seamless user experience.
Astound with modern patterns of fullscreen implementation.
Stay on point with the HTML5 video specification - it's your backstage pass to updates, best practices and more.

For your viewing pleasure

Visualise HTML5 video fullscreen as a fullscreen expansion:

Normal video: 🎥 - I look good on any screen.

Click the fullscreen button:

Fullscreen: 🎥🔁🌌 - I'm strut'n my stuff now!

Key Idea: Fullscreen video is just like a ramp model — owns the entire runway (screen).

Button code:

document.getElementById('videoElement').requestFullscreen(); // Let's go BIG

And you're ready to immerse in a complete view:

Video in full glory: [📹 FULLSCREEN PERFECTO 📹]

Voila! Confidence boosted. 🎥🌐💫

A sneak peek behind the curtain

The HTML5 specification's love letter to you

Check out the HTML5 spec's love notes against misuse during navigation. Give it a read and avoid tripping on those common potholes. Keep your implementation as smooth as your dance moves.

Accessibility: The VIP guest

Don't leave your VIP guests — accessibility features — stranded at the door. Roll out the red carpet with screen reader announcements and keyboard shortcuts for all your guests.

Dancing with data

Interested in knowing how well your dance performance (fullscreen video) is being received? Track user engagement and behavior to uncover fascinating insights.

Debugging, the unsung hero

Every dance party needs a good bouncer. Be prepared to debug issues and squash bugs. Get familiar with your browser-specific tools, because every party has a party crasher (issues and errors).

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