New Chrome Feature Brings Order to the Browser

April 16, 2026, 5:32 am | Read time: 2 minutes

Anyone who has many tabs open in their browser at once knows the problem: It’s easy to lose track. This is where Google steps in with a new feature for Chrome. The browser is getting an additional display option to help better organize open pages.

Previously, all tabs were only visible side by side at the top. With each additional open tab, the individual tabs became smaller until they were barely readable. This could quickly become confusing, especially with intensive use.

Tabs can now also be arranged vertically

With the new update, tabs can alternatively be displayed in a sidebar. Users simply need to right-click in an open Chrome window and select the “Show Tabs Vertically” option. The browser then moves all open tabs into a column on the left side of the screen. This bar can be expanded or collapsed at any time, allowing users to decide how much space the tabs should take up.

AI in Focus The Most Exciting Announcements at Google I/O 2025

With AI OpenAI Launches Browser Offensive Against Chrome and Others

More clarity when working with many tabs

When expanded, all tabs are fully visible, making it easier to keep track and switch between pages quickly. This feature is especially useful for those who regularly have many web pages open at once.

When the bar is collapsed again, it remains space-saving at the edge and does not interfere with work. According to Google, the feature is primarily aimed at users who often work with many tabs simultaneously. The update has been gradually rolling out since April 7, 2026, and is expected to reach all users over time. Previously, Google had already tested the vertical tabs in a beta version.

Improved reading mode as an additional feature

According to an official announcement, Google has also improved the well-known reading mode alongside the new tab view. This mode displays text on web pages clearly and hides distracting elements such as images.

Also interesting: Real-time translation! Google brings “Live Translate” to Germany

New is that the reading mode can now also be used in full screen. A button to the right of the address bar allows switching between the normal view and the reading mode.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TECHBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@techbook.de.