A new Chrome extension now pauses YouTube video playback when users look away from the screen.

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Ngày cập nhật gần nhất: 15/4/2026

FacePause is the name of the latest Chrome extension that halts YouTube video playback when users divert their gaze from the screen. This extension operates using an API called FaceDetector, which has been integrated into Chrome since Chrome 56.

Mattias Hemmingsson is the mastermind behind this innovative extension. With FacePause, Hemmingsson leverages APIs to control YouTube video playback when users glance elsewhere or engage in other activities. Additionally, Hemmingsson provides explanatory videos to demonstrate how the new FacePause extension operates:

For those unfamiliar or curious about how browser APIs recognize faces and perform actions, the FaceDetector API is an experimental feature that must be activated before use. With this feature, Chrome refrains from using the webcam without the user's consent.

To experiment with the FacePause extension, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Enter chrome://flags#enable-experimental-web-platform-features into the Chrome address bar and set Experimental Web Platform features to Enabled. When prompted, click the Relaunch Now button to restart the browser and activate the feature.

A new Chrome extension now pauses YouTube video playback when users look away from the screen.

Step 2: Visit the Chrome Web Store, search for, download, and install the FacePause extension. Alternatively, quickly access it here to download the FacePause extension: Download FacePause

Step 3: Connect your Webcam.

Step 4: After installing the extension, the next step is to access YouTube and start playing a video. On the screen, you will see a small box icon located at the bottom right corner displaying the option Face Play Disabled. Your task is to enable this option.

Step 5: Chrome will request permission to access and use the webcam. All you need to do is allow access.

Step 6: A small window detecting your face will appear on the screen. If your face is successfully detected, a green rectangular box will appear around your face on the screen.

Step 7: Now you can glance away to pause the playing YouTube video.

YouTube hosts a plethora of useful videos. You can download YouTube videos to your phone or computer for later viewing instead of streaming them live when you have an internet connection. Mytour has shared methods to download YouTube videos on various devices in separate articles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the FacePause Chrome extension?

The FacePause Chrome extension pauses YouTube video playback when users look away from the screen. Developed by Mattias Hemmingsson, it utilizes the FaceDetector API to monitor users' attention and enhance viewing experiences.

How does the FaceDetector API work in Chrome?

The FaceDetector API, an experimental feature in Chrome since version 56, recognizes faces without using the webcam until users give consent. This API is essential for the functionality of extensions like FacePause.

Is it necessary to enable experimental features to use FacePause?

Yes, users must enable Experimental Web Platform features in Chrome by navigating to chrome://flags. This step is crucial for the proper functioning of the FacePause extension.

What steps are involved in installing the FacePause extension?

To install FacePause, users need to enable experimental features, download the extension from the Chrome Web Store, connect their webcam, and allow access for face detection to control YouTube playback.

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