Nonmodal dialog.
A dialog that leaves the rest of the app usable.
See it in context
What it is
A nonmodal dialog supports a secondary task while users continue interacting with other content. It should not trap keyboard focus or claim modal semantics, and its relationship to the main task must remain understandable.
When to use it
Use for secondary tools that need simultaneous access to content.
Know the difference
A modal dialog blocks the surrounding interface; a nonmodal dialog permits ongoing interaction.
Across platforms
iPadOS · macOS
Use the native platform presentation and terminology; adapt density and interaction to touch, pointer, remote, or spatial input rather than copying a phone-sized view.
Web · Windows · Linux
On the web, manage keyboard focus and dismissal explicitly. Android and desktop implementations should use the equivalent native surface when available.
Go to the source
Primary documentation for the pattern and its platform conventions.