Google Chrome Becomes More Advanced with Android’s New Desktop Mode
Google Chrome has received an upgraded version of Android’s new desktop mode, allowing users to enjoy a near–computer-like experience when connecting their Android phones to a larger display.
The new feature is currently in experimental testing with Android 16 QPR1, primarily available on Google Pixel devices when connected to an external monitor or large screen.
Unlike traditional screen mirroring, users can now open apps in multiple independent windows — similar to how desktop operating systems work. Chrome has been updated accordingly: it now automatically displays desktop versions of websites, so users no longer need to manually select “Desktop site.”
The latest update introduces a full desktop-style tab strip in Chrome, featuring tabs on the top and minimize, maximize, and close buttons on the side. This improvement has been made possible using Android’s new Windowing API, which makes Chrome significantly more powerful and visually appealing in desktop mode.
Google noted that while many websites already adapt well to large screens, some still remain locked in their mobile layout. To solve this, Chrome’s new update automatically switches to desktop versions when used on bigger displays.
In a demo video, YouTube was shown displaying sidebar tabs instead of the bottom navigation bar in desktop mode, while Reddit’s search bar expanded to full-width — just like a PC browser layout.
According to Google, this update will make web browsing on large screens faster, smoother, and more comfortable for Android users.
