Chrome for Android: See Past Searches on Your New Tab Page - Control How It Works

Chrome for Android is now displaying your past search queries directly on the New Tab Page, offering quick access to recent searches. This feature, which has been in testing, is now widely available on Android devices using the stable channel. If you find this new feature helpful, great! If not, read on to learn how to customize or disable it.

What's New? Accessing Recent Queries

Instead of just website favicons, you'll see a magnifying glass icon next to your recent search terms. Chrome displays approximately 14 characters of the query, truncating longer searches. Tapping on a search query will, as expected, launch a new Google Search results page with that term.

• Benefit: Quickly re-access previous searches without retyping. Especially useful for looking up information you frequently need.
• Drawback: Some users might find it cluttering their New Tab Page, especially if they prefer a cleaner look.

Removing Individual Search Queries

If a particular search suggestion isn't relevant or you prefer it not to appear, you can easily remove it:

1. Long-press the search query you want to remove.
2. Select "Remove."
3. This action replaces the search query with a frequently visited webpage, restoring the previous functionality.

Disabling the Feature Entirely: A Step-by-Step Guide

For those who prefer the classic New Tab Page, disabling the feature completely is straightforward:

1. Open Chrome on your Android device.
2. In the address bar, type chrome://flags/#organic-repeatable-queries and press Enter.

3. Find the “Organic repeatable queries in Most Visited tiles” flag. Use the search bar to quickly locate the flag.
4. Change the setting from "Default" to "Disabled."

5. Tap the "Relaunch" button that appears at the bottom of the screen to restart Chrome and apply the changes.

Customization Requests and User Feedback

Google should consider adding a user-facing setting within Chrome's settings menu for managing the New Tab Page. This would offer a more user-friendly way to customize the experience. If you agree, send feedback directly to Google:

1. Tap the three-dot menu icon (overflow menu).
2. Select "Help & feedback."
3. Choose "Send feedback" and describe your suggestion.

Additional Chrome Enhancements

Stay informed about the latest Chrome updates and features:

• Google removing Chrome Cleanup Tool: Learn about the removal of the Chrome Cleanup Tool and its impact.
• Delete last 15 minutes of browsing history: Discover how to quickly delete your recent browsing history on Android.
• Easier deletion of autofill data: Simplify the process of deleting autofill information in Chrome.
• Chrome ‘Search Companion’ with Google Lens: Explore how the Search Companion uses Google Lens to enhance web browsing context.