For years, people using Google Chrome on Android phones had to rely on system gestures or bottom navigation bars just to go backward a page. Meanwhile, people with an iPhone enjoyed a dedicated back button directly inside the app menu. Now, the search giant is finally changing things up. With the latest version 150 update, the mobile browser receives a proper back button in its settings menu.
The new update changes how the main settings menu looks
The brand new back button sits right next to the forward arrow in the top row of the three-dot menu. Since screen space is limited, the developers had to shift a few other buttons around to make everything fit. The familiar page info icon is gone from the top row completely. Instead, you will now find a new “Site controls” section further down the list that handles those permissions.
Also, the old “Add to home screen” option has a new name. It is now called “Install and create shortcut”. The wording might seem a bit vague, but it does the exact same thing as before. Because of these small shifts, your muscle memory might fail you for a few days when reaching for bookmarks or downloads.
The browser matches the desktop and Apple mobile software layout
This visual update finally brings the Android software in line with Apple devices. The rival iOS platform never had a universal system back button, so an in-app control made total sense. For Android phones, adding this feature gives users a clear and visual way to navigate if they prefer tapping over swiping edges.
The addition also makes the mobile app feel much closer to the desktop computer version. You can check the Google Play Store right now to see if your phone has the version 150 download waiting. The rollout is happening in stages, so it will reach all supported mobile devices very soon.
Having a dedicated button inside the menu gives you more ways to browse the internet comfortably. It removes the guesswork of swiping and ensures you always know exactly how to return to the previous page.
