Chrome update adds Vertical Tabs and Full-Screen Reading Mode for Desktop users

Google revealed a set of updates to its Chrome designed to improve usability, particularly for users who manage multiple open tabs simultaneously. 

Vertical Tabs and Reading mode

Google expands Chrome w/ Vertical Tabs and Reading Mode

The changes include a vertical tab layout and an immersive reading mode for desktop platforms.

The vertical tabs option lets users reposition their tab bar from the top of the browser window to the left side, allowing full tab titles to remain visible and making navigation more manageable when numerous pages are open. There's also condensed icon-only view is also available for those who prefer a more compact interface.

The reading mode

Additionally, a new reading mode accompanies the update, presenting web pages in a stripped-down, full-screen format. This feature eliminates peripheral elements such as advertisements and sidebars, leaving only the core content for a more focused reading experience.

How to enable the new features?

Users who wish to activate vertical tabs can do so through Chrome's experimental settings. Entering chrome://flags/#vertical-tabs in the address bar brings up the relevant option, which can then be switched from Default to Enabled. After relaunching the browser, right-clicking the tab bar and selecting "Move tabs to the side" completes the setup.

Meanwhile, the reading mode can be accessed by right-clicking anywhere on a page and choosing "Open in reading mode," or through the dedicated button in the address bar. Google noted that the rollout is being conducted in phases, meaning some users may gain access to the features later than others.

What do you guys think?

Source: Google