Chrome for Android is testing a "bottom bar" redesign

Chrome for Android is testing a new layout that places key browser controls at the bottom of the screen while the address bar stays at the top. In the current design, these controls appear higher on the page, so most actions require reaching to the top of the screen.

The feature is available in Chrome Canary via an “Android Bottom Bar” flag, which offers multiple layout options, including 1A and 1B, as well as versions for the New Tab Page.

A fixed bar now appears at the bottom of the screen with four actions: Home, new tab, tab switcher, and the three-dot menu. The address bar remains at the top. The layout splits the interface between page content and browser controls. The bottom bar stays visible across pages.

Right now, Chrome places tabs and menu options at the top-right corner. Opening a new tab or switching tabs often requires a grip change. With this layout, those controls move to the bottom edge. Frequent actions stay closer to the thumb and no longer require reaching upward.

Availability is limited to Android and is visible in newer Canary versions. Behavior may vary by device and across the listed variants. Some versions also change how the bottom bar on the New Tab Page works, with slight differences in placement and behavior.

Unlike earlier bottom bar tests, the address bar stays at the top, while only key actions move to the bottom. This keeps the page location at the top while shifting interaction points closer to the user’s hand.

Phone screens have grown taller, which makes the top edge harder to reach. Moving key actions to the bottom keeps them within easier reach and reduces the need to adjust grip. It also changes where users expect to find tabs and menu options.

The feature is under testing. There is no confirmed timeline for when it could reach stable versions.

Chrome on Android is also testing a plus button in the New Tab Page search bar. It lets users upload images and files.