Apps & Consumer
Google Chrome adds vertical tabs to manage browser clutter
Google Chrome is rolling out a vertical tabs feature to all markets, a move likely influenced by competition from alternative browsers like Arc.
On Tuesday, Google announced that it is officially launching vertical tabs for its Chrome browser. The feature, which is a browser user interface setting that moves tabs to the side of the window, is designed to help users manage their open pages more effectively. Once a user enables the feature, vertical tabs will remain the default setting until they choose to change it back. Google stated that there is no hard limit on the number of tabs that can be opened, meaning users can open as many tabs as their hardware allows. The vertical tabs function just as horizontal tabs do, allowing users to maintain separate Chrome windows, each with its own set of tabs or tab groups. This layout is particularly useful for power users and researchers who regularly keep many tabs open and struggle to read page titles when horizontal tabs become crowded.
Alongside the vertical tabs, Google is rolling out a refreshed version of Reading Mode, which is a browser feature that provides a distraction-free, text-focused reading experience. This updated Reading Mode offers a full-page interface designed to reduce on-screen clutter, such as ads and newsletter prompts, making it easier for users to focus on the text. The company is rolling out the vertical tabs feature gradually to users in all markets.
The decision to push forward with vertical tabs was likely influenced by growing interest in alternative web browsers, such as Arc and the AI-focused browser Dia. These modern competitors have popularized vertical layouts to attract users who are looking for better ways to organize their browsing. By introducing vertical tabs, Google is prioritizing feature parity to retain users who might otherwise migrate to these specialized, AI-focused browsers. This update follows other recent additions to Chrome, including Gemini AI integration, autofill improvements, and a Split View mode, as well as a faster release schedule.
Why it matters
This update highlights how competition from niche, modern browsers is forcing Google to adapt Chrome, potentially reducing the incentive for users to switch to alternative platforms.