The Chrome AI update is more than just a feature bump; Google is turning its browser into an AI-first workspace. With Gemini baked into nearly every corner of Chrome, the browser is evolving fast. And yes, it’s about to feel a lot different.
Chrome AI update adds Gemini button to the desktop
First up: the Gemini button. Already live for some users, this new shortcut opens a floating panel where you can ask questions about your open tabs or get instant summaries. More importantly, it doesn’t just limit itself to what’s on your screen; it taps into Google tools like Calendar, YouTube, and even your browsing history to answer vague queries like “where was that article about smart glasses?”
Vivaldi 7.6 brings an editable tab bar, faster tab hibernation, cleaner menus, and more desktop upgrades for Windows, macOS, and Linux users.
Smarter searches arrive with AI Mode in Chrome
Search is getting a new entry point. The omnibox now supports AI Mode, letting users ask questions straight from the address bar. A new button toggles the mode, but it’s easy to imagine this becoming the default. You’ll also see prompts like “ask about this page,” and Chrome will serve answers in a side panel, led by an AI Overview. From there, you can dig deeper with follow-up questions.
Chrome AI update improves scam detection and password protection
Gemini isn’t just helping with browsing; it’s also keeping tabs on your safety. Chrome can now recognize scammy virus pop-ups and fake tech support messages. In addition, its password manager goes beyond alerts. It can now change compromised passwords automatically with one click, though how smooth that process is in practice remains to be seen.
Here’s what the Chrome AI update adds so far:
- Gemini side panel with tab summaries and app integrations
- AI Mode for smarter search via the omnibox
- “Ask about this page” feature with English-only prompts
- Scam detection for fake alerts and giveaway traps
- Auto-changing compromised passwords
- Touch of visual cleanup throughout the interface
Agentic control is coming, but not quite yet
Later this year, Chrome will gain agentic control where the browser can act on your behalf. Think: typing a request and letting Chrome handle booking an appointment or placing a delivery order. It’s the same idea as OpenAI’s Operator or Claude’s agent, but Google’s version might land in more hands purely because of Chrome’s reach.
Still, the catch is obvious: usage agents burn resources. OpenAI limits access behind $200 monthly walls. And every agent action racks up costs in background tokens. Google hasn’t said how it’ll price or restrict its Chrome agent, but don’t expect it to be free-for-all.
Chrome AI update shows Google’s big AI push
The Chrome AI update signals where Google’s priorities lie and it’s not subtle. From smarter search to full-on automation, the company is betting on Gemini to reshape daily browsing. Whether it works at scale or just creates new friction remains to be seen.
Big tech is moving fast. But AI in your browser? That might be the real race.
