Easy Tech TutsHow to Create a Popup in Power BI (Interactive Overlay Trick) Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Popups let you show extra detail in Power BI, like a metric breakdown, without permanently taking up space on your dashboard. This guide explains how to build an interactive overlay that appears on demand using bookmarks and buttons. It's a useful technique for anyone who wants richer reports without overcrowding the main view.
01Enable popups on your report
Start by setting up the report so popup-style overlays can be triggered, which is the foundation for the interactive effect.
02Build the overlay content
Create the visuals or details that will appear inside the popup, keeping them focused on the extra context you want to reveal.
03Create the interactive overlay
Use bookmarks and a trigger element so the overlay appears on top of the report when a user interacts with it, then disappears when closed.
04Enhance the user experience
Refine the popup's positioning and styling so it feels like a natural part of the report rather than an awkward addition.
05Apply it to a business use case
Use the popup to show something practical, such as detailed metrics or added context, so viewers get more insight without extra clutter.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any add-ins to create popups in Power BI?
No, this overlay technique is built using standard Power BI features like bookmarks and buttons, without needing extra add-ins.
Can I use popups to show detailed metrics on click?
Yes, that's one of the most common uses, letting viewers click to reveal detailed metrics without cluttering the main dashboard.
Will popups work the same way when the report is shared?
Yes, since the interactivity is built into the report itself, it works the same for anyone viewing the shared report.
Can I have multiple different popups on one report page?
Yes, you can set up several overlays as long as each one is tied to its own bookmark and trigger.
Is this popup technique difficult for beginners?
It's approachable for beginners since it relies on standard bookmark and button features rather than custom code.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
