Google is moving closer to introducing vertical tabs in Chrome, a long-requested feature for power users. The option has appeared in the browser’s Beta build, signaling that it could soon reach the stable release.
For years, Chrome has used a horizontal tab bar like most browsers. Vertical tabs, which some competitors already offer, allow users to maximize screen space, particularly on wide displays. Google initially rolled out vertical tabs in experimental Canary builds for developers and early testers.
Feature Moves to Chrome Beta
The vertical tabs option has now migrated to Chrome’s Beta channel, which is more stable and used by a wider audience. However, the feature is still hidden and cannot be enabled through Chrome’s regular Settings menu; it requires a manual browser flag.
How to Enable Vertical Tabs in Chrome
According to Ghacks, users can activate vertical tabs in the latest Beta or Canary builds by following these steps:
- Open
chrome://flags/#vertical-tabs - Enable the vertical tabs flag
- Restart Chrome
- Right-click the tab bar and select “Show tabs on the side”
Once activated, tabs shift from the top of the browser to a vertical panel on the side, offering a different workflow and improved tab visibility for users managing many open tabs.
Will Vertical Tabs Reach Stable Chrome?
There is no guarantee the feature will be permanently added to Chrome’s stable version. Its appearance in Beta suggests it could be released as soon as the end of the month. It is also unclear whether Google will keep the feature behind a flag or make it accessible via a visible toggle in the tab bar menu.
As testing continues, Google is likely monitoring feedback to refine vertical tabs. User reception will likely influence whether the feature becomes a permanent option for Chrome users worldwide.
