How to Run Google Chrome with Flags on Android: A Comprehensive Guide

Google Chrome offers a wide array of command-line flags (or switches) that allow you to enable specific features or modify default functionalities. While these flags are readily accessible on desktop versions, enabling them on Android requires a slightly different approach. This article provides a detailed guide on how to run Google Chrome with flags on Android.

Understanding Chrome Flags and Their Importance

Chrome flags are experimental features or settings that aren't enabled by default. They allow developers and advanced users to test new functionalities, customize browser behavior, and sometimes, work around specific issues. By using flags, you can tailor your Chrome experience to suit your specific needs. For a comprehensive list of available flags, you can refer to the Chromium Command Line Switches documentation.

Methods to Run Chrome with Flags on Android

Method 1: Using ADB (Android Debug Bridge)

This method, introduced in Chrome 66, works for production builds on unrooted devices. It involves using the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) to write the desired flags to a specific file.

Steps:

1. Connect your Android device: Ensure your Android device is connected to your computer and ADB is properly configured.

2. Write flags using ADB: Use the following command via ADB to write the desired flags to the chrome-command-line file:

   adb shell 'echo --flag-name=flag_value > /data/local/tmp/chrome-command-line'
   

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   • Replace --flag-name=flag_value with the specific flag you want to enable. For example, to treat insecure origins as secure, you would use:

     adb shell 'echo --unsafely-treat-insecure-origin-as-secure=http://a.test > /data/local/tmp/chrome-command-line'
     

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3. Enable command-line flag: Open Chrome on your Android device and navigate to chrome://flags. Search for "enable-command-line-on-non-rooted-devices" and enable it.

4. Force stop Chrome: Force stop Chrome through the Android system settings. Be sure not to use the relaunch button after enabling the flag, as it may not properly load the flags

   • Navigate to Settings -> Apps -> Chrome -> Force Stop. Re-launch Chrome.

5. Verify: Open Chrome and navigate to chrome://version to verify that the flags have been applied.

   • Look for the "Command Line" section to see if your flag is listed.

Method 2: Writing to the Command-Line File (Root Required for Some Devices)

This method involves directly writing the command-line switches to a specific file on your Android device. The file location may vary depending on your Android version and device.

Steps:

1. Access ADB Shell: Establish an ADB connection to your Android device by running:

   adb shell
   

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2. Determine the Correct File Path: The command-line file may reside in either /data/local/tmp/chrome-command-line or /data/local/chrome-command-line.

   • Unrooted Devices: If possible, test the directory with the following command

     echo "chrome --sync-url" > /data/local/tmp/chrome-command-line
     

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   • Rooted Devices: To write to /data/local/chrome-command-line, write to the target path after running su in the ADB shell

     su
     echo "chrome --sync-url" > /data/local/chrome-command-line
     

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3. Write the flags:

   • Example:

     echo "chrome --sync-url" > /data/local/tmp/chrome-command-line
     

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4. Restart Chrome: Force close Chrome and relaunch it.

5. Verify: Navigate to chrome://version in Chrome to confirm the flags have been applied.

Warning: This method may require root access, especially for older Android versions. Be cautious when rooting your device and ensure you understand the risks involved. Tools like KingoRoot are used for rooting android devices.

Alternative Solutions

• Port Forwarding: For specific scenarios like testing service workers, consider using port forwarding. This approach redirects traffic from your computer to your Android device, allowing you to bypass certain security restrictions. You can find more information regarding this approach here.
• Insecure Origin Flag: A user reported the inability to use insecure origin flags on Chrome. Enabling the --allow-insecure-localhost flag, combined by using a self-signed certificate, creates HTTPS behavior you would normally use in Chrome.

Important Considerations

• Device-Specific Differences: The steps and file locations may vary depending on your Android device and Chrome version.
• Root Access: Some methods require root access, which can void your device warranty and pose security risks. Proceed with caution.
• Chrome Updates: Chrome updates may sometimes reset or invalidate applied flags. You may need to reapply them after an update.
• Debugging Builds: While generally not required, certain advanced flags might necessitate a Chromium debug build.

Conclusion

Running Google Chrome with flags on Android can significantly enhance your browsing experience and enable access to experimental features. While the process might seem technical, following the methods outlined in this guide will help you successfully configure Chrome flags on your Android device. Remember to exercise caution, especially when dealing with root access and potentially unstable flags. By carefully exploring and utilizing these flags, you can tailor Chrome to your specific needs and preferences.