Remember when Apple relocated the address bar to the bottom of Safari? It was highly controversial as it challenged the norm, which was having the address bar at the top. Well, now it looks like Google has started an update rollout for Chrome on Android, which gives users the option to bring the address bar to the bottom of the app.
Chrome on Android gets bottom bar option
Interestingly enough, this feature isn’t exactly new per se. Google introduced the option to Chrome users on iOS back in 2023. However, for whatever reason, Google took its time to bring it to Android. It is possible that since iOS users might be familiar with the placement thanks to Safari, Google felt that the transition wouldn’t have been as jarring for iOS users.
Android users, on the other hand, are used to the address bar located at the top, so Chrome switching it to the bottom could be quite shocking for some. The feature has been in testing in the stable channel for a while. However, it is now rolling out on a wider scale. If you’re interested in checking it out, make sure you have the latest version of Chrome installed. The bottom bar is available on version 138 of Chrome for Android. If you’re running that version, you should have the option.
It’s still an option
Take note that if you’re not a fan of this design, you don’t have to use it. Google, like Apple, is giving users the option. Users can touch and hold to move the address bar to the top or bottom of Chrome. So, if you give it a try and decide it’s not for you, you can switch back to the original version just as easily.
However, we have to admit that having the address bar at the bottom is useful. Our phones have gotten ridiculously huge over the years. This means that unless you have the hands of a giant, using your phone one-handed isn’t as feasible these days. Having the address bar at the bottom makes it easier for users to interact with it.
So, why not give it a try? You might find it easier to get used to than you think.
The post Google Moves the Chrome Address Bar to the Bottom, Because Your Thumbs Are Tired appeared first on Android Headlines.
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