Google Chrome for Android to Get Desktop-Style Address Bar

After tab groups, Google is now working to make Chrome for Android’s Omnibox, aka address bar, match the desktop’s. The changes are being tested behind a flag.

Chrome’s user interface on mobile and desktop is different, but to keep the experience the same across platforms, Google recently made tab group features on Android the same as on desktop. The company is also doing this for Omnibox.

Google Tests Omnibox Parity Update for Chrome on Android

“Add feature flag for Omnibox Mobile Parity Update,” the commit message reads.

“When set, applies certain assets to match desktop visuals and descriptions,” the flag description reads.

Google is updating “various NTP/Omnibox assets and descriptions for visual alignment.” So the user experience when accessing Omnibox in Chrome on Android will be on par with Chrome on desktop.

Google’s Omnibox update for Chrome on Android aims to improve usability. Users can expect improved familiarity by aligning the mobile Omnibox with its desktop counterpart.

This update may not be just about matching visuals—it could also influence how the address bar behaves. While the primary goal is visual alignment, ensuring consistency in design across mobile and desktop, there’s potential for deeper integration in search functionality.

If the update extends beyond aesthetics, users might notice changes in how search suggestions and autocomplete results are presented, bringing Android’s experience closer to the desktop version.

Google Chrome already supports a bottom address bar, so you can expect this parity update with the desktop to also reflect the same visual changes.

That’s not all—Chrome on Android may soon let you change tab strip density when you connect a keyboard or mouse. Additionally, Google is working on significant improvements for Reader Mode in Chrome on Android.