Chrome's new "Unscoped Mode" to allow Extensions to add Features directly to the Address Bar

Google is testing a new feature in Chrome that allows extensions to use the unscoped mode of the address bar, also known as the Omnibox. This feature could improve how extensions interact with your browsing experience.

What Are Unscoped Extensions?

Generally, Chrome extensions that interact with the address bar require the user to enter a keyword before they can start working. The new feature aims to simplify that process. With unscoped extensions, certain extensions can work directly in the address bar without needing a keyword.

How They Work

Google has introduced a new experimental flag named “enable extension permission omnibox.directInput”. This flag allows extensions to request permission for omnibox.directInput, enabling unscoped mode in the Omnibox.

According to “[OmniboxAPI] Add Unscoped extensions list” and “[OmniboxAPI] Introducing the Omnibox extensions section provider” commit messages:

• Extensions can run without the user having to be in keyword mode.
• A list of allowed extensions will be created and updated as permissions are granted or changed.
• Unscoped events will be forwarded only to extensions that have the necessary permission.

For example, with unscoped mode in the Omnibox, password managers could suggest strong passwords directly in the address bar. Translation tools could also automatically translate foreign language websites as you type. Shopping extensions could suggest products or deals based on your query.

How to Test Unscoped Extensions for Omnibox in Chrome

1. Open Chrome Canary.
2. Visit chrome://flags
3. Find “Experimental Omnibox labs” and set it to “Enabled“
4. Restart Chrome.

What this means for end users is Extensions can offer suggestions or take actions directly as you type in the address bar, without needing extra steps. Chrome ensures security when authorizing extensions to use unscoped mode.

In case you don’t know, Google is redesigning Task Manager in Chrome, and this change could also be implemented in the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge. Check for instructions on how to enable the new Task Manager in Edge. Additionally, Google has removed Windows Scrolling personality improvements from Chrome.