Home Google might be making it easier to go Incognito in Chrome

Google might be making it easier to go Incognito in Chrome

TL:DR

  • Google might simplify going Incognito on its mobile app by adding a dedicated Incognito button in the search bar.
  • This feature, spotted in the latest beta version, allows for one-click private browsing sessions, enhancing user convenience.
  • While promising, beta features are not guaranteed to be included in the final public release of the app.

Google could be about to make it easier to go Incognito on the Google mobile app, according to some evidence in the code.

At the moment, going incognito on the current version of the Google app requires tapping on the profile picture, then onto ‘New Chrome Incognito tab.’ It’s not quite as smooth to start a private session as on a browser, for example.

However, Assemble Debug, as reported by Android Authority, has spotted some code in the latest beta version of the app that includes a dedicated Incognito button directly in the search bar. This would bring private browsing sessions with the touch of a single click.

The feature is reportedly already working for Android Authority but is yet to roll out fully. Some other potential changes include a simpler look for tabs at the bottom of the app, namely by removing text from those tabs. It means users will no longer see terms like Home, Search, or Saved underneath their tab icons.

It’s worth noting that new features found in beta versions don’t always make it to the public. As the name would suggest, beta versions are for testing out potential additions for technical issues and for seeing how beta users respond to them, before releasing them to the general public.

What is Google Incognito browsing?

Incognito browsing is essentially a private browsing session within Google. Any windows or tabs you open after that are part of the same session, which only ends when you close all open Incognito windows.

Operating in Incognito means none of your browsing history, cookies, or site data are saved on your device. You also won’t be signed in to any of your accounts that are saved on your device, making it a convenient way to use a different account for one-off sessions, without logging out of any of your saved ones.

Websites will also see you as a new user and won’t know who you are, so long as you don’t sign in. People who share your device will also not be able to see your browsing history. It’s also available from Google as part of YouTube browsing.

Featured image: Unsplash

About ReadWrite’s Editorial Process

The ReadWrite Editorial policy involves closely monitoring the tech industry for major developments, new product launches, AI breakthroughs, video game releases and other newsworthy events. Editors assign relevant stories to staff writers or freelance contributors with expertise in each particular topic area. Before publication, articles go through a rigorous round of editing for accuracy, clarity, and to ensure adherence to ReadWrite's style guidelines.

Rachael Davies
Tech Journalist

Rachael Davies has spent six years reporting on tech and entertainment, writing for publications like the Evening Standard, Huffington Post, Dazed, and more. From niche topics like the latest gaming mods to consumer-faced guides on the latest tech, she puts her MA in Convergent Journalism to work, following avenues guided by a variety of interests. As well as writing, she also has experience in editing as the UK Editor of The Mary Sue , as well as speaking on the important of SEO in journalism at the Student Press Association National Conference. You can find her full portfolio over on…

Get the biggest tech headlines of the day delivered to your inbox

    By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe anytime.

    Tech News

    Explore the latest in tech with our Tech News. We cut through the noise for concise, relevant updates, keeping you informed about the rapidly evolving tech landscape with curated content that separates signal from noise.

    In-Depth Tech Stories

    Explore tech impact in In-Depth Stories. Narrative data journalism offers comprehensive analyses, revealing stories behind data. Understand industry trends for a deeper perspective on tech's intricate relationships with society.

    Expert Reviews

    Empower decisions with Expert Reviews, merging industry expertise and insightful analysis. Delve into tech intricacies, get the best deals, and stay ahead with our trustworthy guide to navigating the ever-changing tech market.