Google is rolling out significant updates to its Chrome browser, focusing on improving tab management and cross-device synchronization. These new features aim to streamline users' browsing experiences across desktop and mobile platforms.
Tab Groups Come to iOS
After being available on Android and desktop for some time, tab groups are finally making their way to Chrome for iOS. This feature allows users to organize related tabs into custom-labeled groups, making it easier to manage multiple open pages. iPhone and iPad users can access this feature by opening the tab grid, long-pressing on a tab, and selecting Add Tab to New Group. Users can then assign custom names and colors to these groups for easy identification.
Cross-Device Tab Group Syncing
Perhaps the most significant update is the introduction of tab group syncing across devices. This feature, which is gradually rolling out to Android users and coming soon to iOS, allows users to save and access their tab groups on any device where they're signed into Chrome. This seamless integration enables users to start browsing on one device and continue on another without losing their organized tab structure.
Proactive Page Suggestions
Google is also experimenting with a new feature that suggests pages to revisit based on tabs opened on other devices. This functionality aims to reduce the need for manual bookmarking and help users quickly pick up where they left off across different devices. The feature will appear as a new card titled Continue with this tab on the New Tab page.
Rollout and Availability
The tab group feature for iOS is starting to roll out today, while the cross-device syncing for Android will be available in the coming weeks. iOS users can expect the syncing feature soon. The page suggestion experiment will begin in a couple of weeks for a small group of users across Android, iOS, and desktop platforms.
These updates demonstrate Google's commitment to enhancing Chrome's usability and maintaining its position as one of the most popular web browsers across multiple platforms. By focusing on seamless integration and improved organization, Google aims to provide a more efficient and user-friendly browsing experience for its diverse user base.