Chrome for Android Begins Rolling Out Bottom Address Bar for Easier Access

By Staff Writer . Mobile UX News . April 16, 2025

Google has officially begun rolling out the bottom address bar option in Chrome for Android, following months of testing that started in October 2023. The update, now appearing on select devices running Chrome version 135, brings the address bar closer to users’ thumbs—aiming to improve reachability and one-handed browsing on larger phones.

A Simpler Yet Incomplete UX Change

The shift moves Chrome’s Omnibox (address/search bar) to the bottom of the screen, allowing users easier access to URL input and search features. Some users are being greeted with a prompt that reads:

“You can touch and hold to move the address bar to the bottom.”

While the move seems intuitive, the rollout appears to be partial and still in its early stages, currently visible on a limited number of Android devices.

Notably, Google has not updated the overflow menu (the three-dot icon). Core options like Bookmarking, New Tab, and History remain at the top of the menu, requiring users to reach upward despite the relocated address bar. This inconsistency highlights a missed opportunity to create a fully thumb-friendly interface for mobile users.

No Major Visual Changes Elsewhere

Other parts of the UI, such as the New Tab Page, remain unchanged for now. The update focuses solely on address bar placement, with no reordering of controls or gesture enhancements included in the rollout.

This feature previously launched on Chrome for iOS in October 2023 and has since been well-received by users looking for a more ergonomic browsing experience. Android users now appear next in line, though a wider rollout is still pending.

Chrome Settings Also Gets a Streamlined Redesign

In addition to the address bar change, Chrome has introduced a redesigned Settings page that simplifies navigation and improves clarity:

• “Basics” has been trimmed down to four key settings:

  • Search engine

  • Address bar

  • Privacy and security

  • Safety check

• “Passwords and Autofill” is a new unified section, grouping:

  • Google Password Manager

  • Payment methods

  • Addresses & more

  • Autofill services

• “Advanced” now includes a long list of options such as:

  • Tabs

  • Homepage

  • Toolbar shortcut

  • Notifications

  • Accessibility

  • Site settings

  • Theme and Downloads

This layout is intended to help users find relevant settings faster, especially those managing multiple devices or syncing across accounts.