Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Yes. GNOME’s Now Playing Card extension can display media information from several MPRIS-compatible apps in a single popup, rather than limiting the interface to whichever player is currently active. The currently playing session receives priority, while other players remain available as rows or additional cards.
How the multi-player card works
Now Playing Card is a GNOME Shell extension built around the Linux MPRIS interface. It presents cover art, a seekable progress bar and playback controls for applications that expose an MPRIS session. Because MPRIS is the common interface, the extension can work with players installed natively, as Flatpaks or as Snaps.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Several sessions share one popup in an accordion-style layout. When a player starts playing, it is promoted into the active position. Other sessions remain available as rows that you can open manually, so switching between apps does not require opening each player separately.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteVisible-card limit and priority
| Behavior | Documented setting |
|---|---|
| Cards shown at once | Three by default |
| Maximum configured cards | Up to ten |
| Active-player priority | The player currently playing is given a place in the visible set |
| Other sessions | Remain as rows or additional cards that can be opened |
A row opened by hand stays open while its player is playing. This means you can keep a second player expanded for reference while another session is active, subject to the configured card limit.
#1 Best Overall
What you can control from the card
The controls shown depend on what each player advertises through MPRIS. Supported sessions can expose:
- Album or track cover art and playback metadata
- Seekable progress controls
- Play, pause, previous and next
- Volume adjustment
- Shuffle and repeat options
A player that does not advertise a particular capability will not show that control. The extension therefore acts as an aggregation interface: it displays metadata and sends supported commands to each app’s MPRIS session, but it does not replace the underlying media players.
Where the card appears in GNOME
You can use the extension’s own button in the top panel or embed the card in GNOME Quick Settings. The choice changes where you open the interface, not how player sessions are prioritized or aggregated.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #2
- Wireless Music Control – Take control of your music without reaching for your phone. The Satechi wireless media button let you play/pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume from up to 40ft (12m) away. Whether commuting, biking, or working, enjoy seamless playback control that fits into your routine. Our Bluetooth music controller is compatible with iOS, Android, MacOS, and iPadOS. Not recommended for Mac devices released before 2012 due to older Bluetooth versions
- Distraction Free-Operation – Designed with a simple tactile layout, the coin-shaped button allows for instant access to media controls — no screen unlocking, swiping, or app switching required. A compact form factor ensures easy one-handed use, even while on the move
- Versatile Mounting Options – Easily mount the Bluetooth Media Button on your steering wheel, bike handlebars, or desk with the included clip. Designed for portability and daily use, the compact build stays securely in place without getting in the way
- Extended Battery Life – Powered by a replaceable CR2016 coin cell battery, the Media Button is built for long-term use with minimal upkeep. Auto-sleep functionality helps conserve power, providing up to two years of use before replacement is needed. Battery included
- What You Get – With your purchase you will receive a universal mount, a keychain, a 3M sticker, pre-installed battery, and a user manual for your convenience. Satechi products are covered by a 2-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use
Requirements and supported GNOME versions
The project documents a simple requirement: GNOME Shell 45 or newer, running on either Wayland or X11, with no additional dependency listed. The GNOME Extensions directory currently lists releases 1.0.11, 1.0.10, 1.0.9, 1.0.8 and 1.0.6, each marked for Shell versions 45 through 51. Check the extension’s compatibility entry before installing if your distribution ships a different Shell release.
How to install Now Playing Card
The project documents three installation routes:
- GNOME Extensions website: Open the extension’s listing, confirm that your GNOME Shell version is supported, and use the install switch.
- Release ZIP: Download a published release archive and install it through GNOME’s extension tools or the project’s documented procedure.
- From source: Build the project, then install it with
gnome-extensionsas described in its README.
After installation, enable the extension in GNOME Extensions, open its preferences and raise the number of simultaneous cards if three is not enough. The preference supports up to ten cards.
Troubleshooting multiple-player display
A player does not appear
Verify that the application is running and exposes an MPRIS service. Some players only publish a session after playback starts. Packaging format is not inherently a blocker: native, Flatpak and Snap applications can work through MPRIS.
Rank #3
- Designed for Presentations and Media Control – Navigate slides, adjust volume, and control media from up to 10 meters away. Works with Keynote, PowerPoint, Google Slides, and major media apps on macOS and iPadOS via Bluetooth 5.0 or 2.4GHz USB receiver.
- Rechargeable Aluminum Design – USB-C rechargeable battery eliminates disposable batteries for a more sustainable remote. Slim aluminum body delivers a premium, ergonomic feel for extended presentations and media control sessions.
- Dual Presentation and Media Modes – Switch between dedicated Presentation Mode (P) for slide navigation and Media Mode (M) for full multimedia control. Features volume adjustment, play/pause, skip, and custom function buttons for versatile control.
- Built for macOS and iPad Compatibility – Designed for MacBook and iPad with dedicated macOS shortcut keys. Connects via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz USB receiver with up to 10m range.
- What You Get – With your purchase you will receive a USB-C charging cable and a user manual for your convenience. Satechi products are covered by a 2-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use
The wrong player is on top
Start playback in the desired application. The extension gives the currently playing player priority. Other sessions can still be opened from their rows.
A button is missing
Missing controls usually indicate that the player has not advertised that capability through MPRIS. The extension cannot add seeking, volume, shuffle or repeat support that the application does not expose.
Only three players are visible
Three is the default card count. Open the extension’s preferences and increase the limit, up to ten, if you need more simultaneous cards.
Rank #4
- Detachable & Versatile Design: Bluetooth media remote Features a detachable body, offer 4 directions to suit your different car steering wheels or bike,motorcycle handlebars with various usage scenarios and preferences.
- NOTE: CANNOT connect directly to car stereo,need to connect via phone,not support car configurations with canbus.To control the stereo volume with the remote, turn off the Wi-Fi link to your phone and keep Bluetooth only — to avoid signal interference.
- Universal Compatibility: Bluetooth remote control Compatible with iOS & Android phone for calls, adjust volume, switch songs, take photos, and activate Siri.
- Widely Applicable: For driving, riding, or working. Easily manage your phone's music, connected headphones, or speakers without taking your eyes off the road or task.
- Multifunction: Bluetooth Button Remote IPX67 water-resistant,can be used on rainy days. The backlight button enhances visibility for night-time use.
License and availability
Now Playing Card is free software licensed under GPL-2.0-or-later. The maintainer lists optional sponsorship and donation links, but using the extension does not require a paid plan.
Bottom line for Spotify-plus-another-player setups
If two or more Linux media apps publish MPRIS sessions, Now Playing Card can put them in one GNOME popup. The active app is prioritized automatically, while the others remain one click away. GNOME Shell 45 or newer is the key requirement; the number of simultaneously visible cards is three by default and configurable to ten.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Frequently Asked Questions
Does Now Playing Card replace my media players?
No. It aggregates MPRIS metadata and sends supported controls to the players you already use.
Can I use it on Wayland as well as X11?
Yes. The project lists GNOME Shell 45 or newer on either Wayland or X11.
Why do some controls not appear for a player?
Controls are shown only when that player advertises the corresponding MPRIS capability.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Recommended Free Tools
