Google Chrome for iPhone Introduces a Bottom Address Bar

Apple made the move of Safari's address bar to the bottom of the iPhone screen two years ago. Now, Google is finally following suit with a new option in the Chrome iOS app. This option allows users to move the address bar to the bottom of their screen, although it is disabled by default.

To access this setting, simply long-press the Chrome address bar on iOS and select "Move to Bottom." According to Google, having the address bar at the bottom makes it easier to reach, especially for those with larger phones or smaller hands. If you want to go back to the original layout, just long-press the address bar again. Additionally, these layout choices can be found in Chrome's settings.

Google

In April 2023, we came across a new layout for Chrome on iOS. Initially available as an experimental flag, developer comments implied that it would eventually become the default layout for Chrome on iOS. However, contrary to our current understanding, the original layout for Google Chrome remains the default option. Presumably, Google decided to keep the default address bar layout to prevent any confusion or backlash. Interestingly, Apple received very few complaints when they changed the orientation of their address bar, so perhaps Google simply prefers the traditional approach.

Google Chrome tested a bottom address bar for Android in 2016 but discarded the idea after four years. Currently, there are no experimental flags to activate a bottom address bar for Chrome on Android, and Google has not announced plans for an Android rollout. Unlike Android, all browsers on iOS utilize Apple's WebKit engine, which suggests that implementing this feature may have been simpler for Google on iOS.

The bottom address bar seems to be gradually rolling out through a server-side update, eliminating the need for users to update Chrome. However, it may take a few days for the server-side updates to reach everyone. If the option for the bottom address bar is not yet available on your Chrome browser, simply wait a day or two before trying again. It is important to note that this feature is exclusively available for the iOS version of Chrome.

Source: Google

Editor's P/S

As an enthusiastic fan of Google Chrome, I am thrilled about the introduction of the bottom address bar on iPhone. This new feature will greatly enhance the browsing experience, especially for those with larger phones or smaller hands. The bottom address bar will make it easier to reach and use, providing a more effortless and intuitive navigation.

Furthermore, the fact that this feature is being rolled out through a server-side update, eliminating the need for users to update Chrome, is a testament to Google's commitment to providing a seamless and user-friendly experience. Overall, I believe this new feature is a positive step forward and will be widely appreciated by Chrome users on iPhone.