On Tuesday, Alphabet Inc.'s (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Google Chrome introduced an optional vertical tabs feature, allowing users to move tabs from the top of the browser to a sidebar. 

Chrome Adds Vertical Tabs To Improve Productivity

Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai shared the development on X. The change is designed to make it easier to view full page titles and manage multiple tabs, especially for users who keep dozens open at once.

The feature can be enabled by right-clicking within the browser and selecting "Show Tabs Vertically" and it will remain the default view unless switched back.

Google says there is no fixed cap on tabs beyond device limitations and the new layout works seamlessly with tab groups and multiple windows.

Competition From Arc And AI Browsers Drives Shift

The move reflects growing pressure from newer browsers like Arc browser, which popularized vertical tab layouts and more modern user interfaces.

Chrome had previously tested similar functionality years ago, but never fully released it.

With AI-powered browsers and alternative platforms gaining traction, Google appears to be adopting features that appeal to power users and researchers who need better tab organization.

New Reading Mode Targets Cluttered Web Pages

Alongside vertical tabs, Chrome is rolling out an updated Reading Mode that offers a cleaner, distraction-free interface.

The feature removes ads and other on-screen clutter, presenting content in a simplified, full-page view.

The update comes as many websites — particularly news platforms — have become increasingly crowded with ads and pop-ups, a trend tied in part to declining traffic from search as AI tools reshape how users access information.

Gradual Rollout Across Markets

Google said both vertical tabs and the refreshed Reading Mode are being rolled out gradually to users worldwide as part of its ongoing updates to Chrome.

Price Action: Shares of Alphabet Inc. rose Tuesday, with Class A closing up 1.82% at $305.46 and gaining another 3.04% after hours, while Class C climbed 2.11% to $303.93 and added 2.90% in after-hours trading, according to Benzinga Pro.

According to Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings, GOOGL is trending lower in the short to medium term but continues to show strength over the long term, with its Quality score placing it in the 94th percentile.

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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