Google has officially introduced the option to move the Chrome address bar to the bottom of Android phone screens, a feature that aims to make browsing easier on large devices. This update was announced on Tuesday, and is rolling out gradually to users worldwide.
Why moving the Chrome address bar to the bottom matters
With many Android phones now sporting 6.8-inch or larger screens, reaching the top of the screen to access the address bar can be tricky. Google explains, “Depending on the size of your hand and your device, one address bar position may feel more comfortable than the other. We designed this update to give you the flexibility to choose your preferred location, so you can browse with more ease.”
This change is beneficial for one-handed use, reducing the need to stretch fingers awkwardly to the top of the screen. The feature brings Chrome in line with Safari on iOS, which added a similar option in 2021 after users complained about the address bar blocking content and being hard to reach.
How to move the address bar in Chrome for Android
Google has made it simple to switch the address bar position. Users can long-press the address bar and select “Move address bar to bottom” from the menu. Alternatively, they can go to Chrome’s Settings, tap “Address bar,” and choose the bottom position.
All related controls move along with the address bar, including the tab switcher and three-dot menu. The bar also hides automatically when scrolling, just like at the top. If users prefer the traditional layout, they can easily switch back by repeating the same steps.
The rollout is gradual, so not everyone will see the option immediately. For those eager to try it now, enabling the feature via Chrome flags is possible by searching for “#android-bottom-toolbar” and then restarting the browser.
This update is a subtle but practical improvement that enhances comfort and usability for Android users, especially those with larger phones who browse extensively.