Millions of people around the world use Google Chrome for both work and play on a daily basis. And why wouldn’t they? It’s fast, reliable, and has an intuitive interface that makes browsing the web a breeze. But what many people don’t know is that Chrome is loaded with extra features that can make your web surfing experience even better. From cheat codes to privacy and security, we’ve scoured Chrome to bring you some of our favorite tips and tricks.
Discover 9 Hidden Features of Chrome You Never Knew Existed.
- Block Third-party Cookies
- Use the Search Sidebar Tool
- Pin Tabs
- Set Chrome Flags
- Re-open Closed Tabs
- Run a Safety Check
- Hack the Chrome Dinosaur Game
- Add Accessibility Features
- Play Pac Man
1. Block Third-party Cookies
Despite their sweet-sounding name, cookies are actually used as trackers on the internet. If you’re concerned about being tracked while browsing online, Chrome provides a simple solution: blocking third-party cookies and limiting personalized ads. However, keep in mind that opting to block all cookies may lead to certain websites malfunctioning or being unable to save important information like passwords, so it’s important to be aware of your login details before taking this step.
2. Use the Search Sidebar Tool
If you’re conducting research or referencing sources, Chrome offers a handy feature that allows you to compare search results while staying on the same webpage. This tool can be particularly useful for academic purposes, as well as when researching products or trying to find the best deal from different online retailers.
To use this feature, simply search for your desired topic on Chrome and select the webpage you want to visit. Then, click on the Google symbol located in the search bar to open a second search window on the side of the screen. This allows you to explore other search results without leaving the original webpage.
3. Pin Tabs
Have you ever found yourself with a bunch of disorganized tabs on Chrome? You can easily fix this by pinning your important tabs to the left side of your screen for easy access. This also helps prevent accidentally closing a tab.
To pin a tab, simply right-click on it and select “Pin”. It will then be fixed to the left-hand side of your screen. This is a great way to prioritize your frequently visited websites and keep them in order.
4. Set Chrome Flags
Similar to how Android phones provide developer options, Chrome flags offer users access to numerous additional features. However, many of these features are still in their alpha and beta stages and should be regarded as experimental. Nonetheless, advanced users can utilize flags to optimize their Chrome experience. While there are likely several flags that could enhance your browsing experience, it is advisable to avoid any flags that you don’t comprehend.
To enable Chrome flags, type chrome://flags/ into the address bar and toggle the desired flags on. Following this, restart Chrome to allow the changes to take effect.
5. Re-open Closed Tabs
Closing the wrong tab by mistake is a common issue, particularly when you have multiple tabs open. However, the “undo” function won’t be of any help once a tab has been closed. But don’t worry, you still have a chance to restore your tab from the void, and it’s a simple and fast process.
To recover a closed tab, you can either access your browsing history by clicking on the three dots in the top right corner and selecting “history,” then choosing the recently closed page. Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+T to quickly reopen the last closed tab.
6. Run Safety Check
We rely on Chrome and its safety features to ensure our online security, which is why keeping it up to date is crucial. However, you can also use Chrome to scan for malicious extensions, harmful software, and potential password breaches. This is an excellent complement to the best antivirus software, providing you with the ultimate peace of mind.
To perform a safety check, click on the three dots in the top right corner and select “Settings.” Then, choose “Privacy and security,” and under “Safety Check,” select “Check now.” This will prompt Chrome to scan for any security issues and provide you with recommendations to address them.
7. Hack the Chrome Dinosaur Game
The Chrome dinosaur game has become a popular pastime for procrastination, but it can also be quite difficult with obstacles such as Pterodactyls and cacti appearing rapidly. As with many classic games, cheating is often the easiest way to achieve a high score. By making the dinosaur invincible, you can eliminate some or all of the challenge and impress your friends with your performance.
To cheat in the Chrome dinosaur game, begin by typing chrome:dino into the address bar and hitting Enter. Then, right-click and select “Inspect” to open the Developer Tools panel and choose “Console.” In the console’s text box, type in “var original = Runner.prototype.gameOver.” In a separate text box, type “Runner.prototype.gameOver = function (){}.” This will make the dinosaur invincible, allowing you to keep playing without worrying about obstacles. Just make sure not to reveal your secret to others!
8. Add Accessibility Features
Chrome’s ability to install extensions is undoubtedly one of its best features, and you’re probably already aware of that. While there are extensions available for just about anything, some of the most valuable ones offer accessibility options for those who require them. These accessibility extensions can provide support for screen readers, text-to-speech, and even help those with Dyslexia.
To download accessibility extensions in Chrome, begin by clicking on the three dots in the top right corner and selecting “Settings.” Then, select “Accessibility” and click on “Add accessibility features.” Finally, download any necessary extensions that meet your requirements.
9. Play Pac-Man
It may surprise you to know that one of the most beloved and iconic games of all time, Pac-Man, can be played for free on your browser right now! While we’re not referring to the Chrome Dinosaur game, this game has been a favorite among millions since its release in 1980. Now, you can enjoy it on Chrome during your lunch break. Originally used as a Google doodle, this version of the game is now accessible at any time.
To play Pac-Man on your browser, simply type “Pac-Man” into the search bar. Then, select “Play” and enjoy the game. If you’re interested in playing other games, including Minesweeper, simply select the drop-down arrow for additional options.