Google Chrome Explores a New User Interface on iOS with Bottom Address Bar

Google Chrome, the globally popular web browser, is reportedly testing a new feature that allows users to move the address bar to the bottom of the screen on iOS devices. This move comes after Apple initiated a similar change in its Safari web browser, positioning its tab bar at the bottom of the screen with iOS 15, about two years ago.

The ongoing testing was initially spotted by iOS developer Steve Moser in the TestFlight version of the Chrome app. It should be noted that this change is completely optional. Users who wish to explore this new feature can do so by navigating to Settings > Address Bar in Chrome’s test version. 

For users who can't locate the Address Bar menu in the TestFlight version of Chrome, there is an alternative way to activate this feature. They can achieve this by enabling the “chrome://flags/#bottom-omnibox-steady-state” flag. 

While Google Chrome has been providing a seamless browsing experience to its users, this potential change could further enhance usability. A bottom address bar could prove more ergonomic for users with larger screens or those who prefer one-handed browsing. However, it remains to be seen whether this feature will be welcomed by all users or if it will create confusion due to the alteration of a familiar interface.

As of now, this feature is only in the testing phase and there is no official confirmation or timeline from Google about when it will be rolled out to the general public. It's also uncertain if this change will be extended to Android versions of Chrome in the future. As always, Google seems committed to refining user experience and this test is a testament to their ongoing efforts. 

We encourage you to share your thoughts on this potential change in the comments. Would you prefer the address bar at the bottom or the top of your screen? Let us know!