The Shortcuts plugin makes playback controllable from anywhere on your system: global hotkeys for play/pause, next and previous that work while the app is in the background, and proper handling of the media keys on your keyboard.

On Linux it also exposes the player over MPRIS, so desktop-environment media widgets, GNOME’s lock screen and tools like playerctl can control YouTube Music like any native player.

What it does

  • Global play/pause, next and previous hotkeys that work while the app is minimised
  • Overrides the media-key OSD so only one player responds
  • Linux MPRIS support for desktop media widgets and playerctl

How to enable Shortcuts (& MPRIS)

  1. Install YouTube Music Desktop App for Windows, macOS or Linux.
  2. Open the app menu and choose Plugins.
  3. Switch on Shortcuts (& MPRIS).
  4. Open its options entry to adjust the settings.

Frequently asked questions

Why do my media keys control the browser instead?

Another player has claimed them. Enable the media-key override in this plugin, and close or mute other media tabs.

Can I define my own key combinations?

Yes, custom hotkeys can be assigned per action in the plugin options.

Shortcuts (& MPRIS) ships with the app

Free, open source, and one toggle away — along with 42 other plugins.

Download free