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Boomshockalockah
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

How to top-align full-screen video playback in portrait mode?

I want video playback in portrait mode to be top aligned and full screen instead of centered. Is there a way to do that? I want space for my thumb to rest over the screen comfortably and black blank space to reduce distractions. Think Ipod classic screen orientation.

Posted on Oct 24, 2026 3:18 PM

1 reply

Community User

Oct 24, 2026 4:54 PM in response to Boomshockalockah

iOS does not currently have a built-in setting to shift letterboxed video playback to the top of the screen in portrait mode. Video player content is automatically centered by default.

Best Workaround: Picture in Picture (PiP)

  1. Start playing your video and tap the Picture in Picture icon (or swipe up to go Home).
  2. Drag and resize the floating video window to the top of your screen.

Submit Feature Feedback:

Since top-aligned portrait video isn't a native option, you can submit product feedback directly to Apple at apple.com/feedback.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256382338