Google uses its Chrome Beta channel to release features in test mode, before releasing them into the wild. And on 1 September 2021, Google released version 94 of Chrome Beta for users to check out and send back their input.

Some of the features being tested look promising for those wanting to boost their productivity while working from home or simply browsing the web. Let's take a look at those updates here.

Get Around Faster With New Cards Inside the New Tabs Page

We all know how frustrating it is to search through a week's worth of web history to find simply find a previous page or project. Google Chrome is trying new features to combat just that. The first new feature to note is the addition of “cards” inside the New Tabs page.

Based on your browsing history, Google Chrome will generate new cards for you to select that take you back where you left off. For example, underneath the Google Drive section, you'll find cards, not just links, pointing you back to previous projects you've been working on.

Just click and Google Chrome will open that document or spreadsheet, with the need to sift through Google Drive yourself.

Image shows a Google Drive card inside Google Chrome

This feature also shows cards for websites you've previously visited for shopping, finding recipes, and more. There's no need to return to your web history.

If you'd like to try the new card feature, you'll need to first install the Google Chrome Beta, if you haven't done so already, and enable the #ntp-modules flag on your computer. To do so:

  1. Type chrome://flags/#ntp-modules into your Google Chrome address bar.
  2. Select the dropdown menu next to NTP Modules and select Enabled.
  3. Restart your Google Chrome browser to ensure the changes take effect.
Image shows experiment flags inside Google Chrome

According to Google, there are other modules you can enable to customize your cards inside Google Chrome Beta, including:

  • Recipes (#ntp-recipe-tasks-module)
  • Shopping Carts (#ntp-chrome-cart-module)
  • Docs (#ntp-drive-module)

Additional Features for Google Chrome for Android

For Android users, Google is testing additional features that can improve the way you search and share via Google Chrome for Android. These updates include a new results bar feature for continuous search, as well as quote-sharing via quote cards.

Forget the Back Button With the New Continuous Search Results Bar

Whether you're shopping or looking up movie times, you may have to click multiple results before you find what you're looking for. On Android, Google Chrome Beta is currently testing a new results bar as part of the recent continuous search feature.

This bar allows you to keep searching without needing to return to the search results page. Under the address bar, you'll see the additional results listed for fast navigation.

Simply scroll horizontally until you find the result you're looking for and tap. To try this new feature inside Google Chrome Beta, enable the #continuous-search flag inside Google Chrome for Android.

Share Quotes Quickly With Quote Cards

Whether you want to create a quick social media graphic or find an encouraging quote you wish to send to a co-worker, you can quickly share quotes and text using the new quote cards feature on Android. Per Google, here's how to try it out for yourself:

  1. Enable the #webnotes-stylize flag inside Google Chrome on your Android device.
  2. Tap and highlight the text you wish to use from any web page.
  3. Tap Share and select Create card from the menu.
  4. Select and template and share away!

This is also a useful tool for saving interesting quotes, stats, or information for later right to your device. For example, you can see a statistic that would make a great addition to that presentation you're working on? Save it via quote cards.

Test These New Features and Provide Your Feedback

If you're a Google Chrome user, take advantage of the Beta release to try out some of these new features and send in your feedback. Google uses our feedback to continuously enhance these tools, so we can stay productive during work and play.