Google Chrome on Android is undergoing a noteworthy enhancement with the introduction of a bookmarks bar, designed to streamline access to saved sites. This feature, now available in Chrome version 146, aims to replicate the desktop browsing experience on larger screens, particularly for tablet and foldable users.
What you need to know
- Chrome on Android now adds a bookmarks bar on tablets and foldables for quicker access to saved sites.
- The feature arrives with Chrome version 146 and brings a desktop-like browsing experience to larger screens.
- The bookmarks bar shows site names and icons, along with an option to expand and view all bookmarks.
This update is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance the Chrome experience. Following the rollout of Gemini in regions outside the U.S., the addition of a bookmarks bar signifies a significant leap towards improving usability on mobile devices. Previously, accessing bookmarks required navigating through a three-dot menu, which could be cumbersome. Now, users can enjoy direct access to their favorite sites, mirroring the convenience found on desktop versions.
To enable this feature on devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 or Pixel 10 Pro Fold, users simply need to navigate to Settings within the Chrome app, select Appearance, and toggle on Show bookmarks bar. In some cases, a quick force stop and restart of the app may be necessary for the bookmarks bar to appear.
This new implementation significantly enhances the browsing experience, allowing users to quickly access their most frequented websites without the previous hassle. After updating to the latest version of the Chrome app via the Google Play Store, many users, including those with devices like the Oppo Find N5, have reported successful activation of the feature, indicating a broad rollout.
Android Central’s Take
This seemingly minor adjustment carries substantial implications for user experience. For too long, Chrome on foldable and tablet devices lagged behind its desktop counterpart in terms of functionality. While the addition of support for extensions would further elevate the experience, the bookmarks bar is a commendable step towards bridging that gap and enhancing usability for mobile users.
