Recent findings suggest that Chrome for Android may soon introduce a Tab Declutter feature to help users manage numerous open tabs. Clues about this feature surfaced in code lines on Google’s Chromium platform, as reported by 9To5Google. While the exact workings of Tab Declutter remain undisclosed, there’s sufficient information available to envision its functionality.
As per the report, tabs inactive for a prolonged duration will be automatically archived. Users can then access the archive editor to review and decide whether to delete or restore tabs.
Tab Declutter not only aids in organizing a cluttered browser but also has the potential to enhance Chrome’s performance. An abundance of open tabs can consume a device’s RAM, causing sluggish performance.
Google has been actively enhancing tab management for its browser. Earlier this year, the company introduced an organizer tool leveraging ai“>AI to group tabs instantly by topic.
These initiatives trace back to 2020 when Google began developing a feature to recommend closing tabs left inactive for long periods. Although less assertive than the new Declutter tool, as it didn’t archive tabs, the idea resurfaced.
Speculating on numerous open tabs
9To5Google warns this could potentially become one of the most irritating features introduced by the company. Imagine Chrome quietly closing tabs you intended to view – it could quickly become frustrating.
Additionally, might it be feasible to establish a timeframe for when inactive pages are automatically closed? Will there be an exemption list allowing certain websites to remain untouched by Chrome? Answers will be forthcoming once this feature is rolled out.
There’s no indication of Tab Declutter’s release date. It remains uncertain whether Chrome on iOS will also receive a similar upgrade to its Chromium counterpart. Android devices might have priority, followed by iPhones, or certain regions might miss out on a Chromium-based browser for iPhones.
9To5Google predicts the update might debut in early May alongside Chrome 125. However, this seems premature if the feature is still under development. Late summer to early autumn appears more likely, but predictions could be inaccurate. Only time will tell.