What are Chrome Actions? How to use Google Chrome's address bar shortcuts to update passwords or payment methods, delete search history, and more
- Chrome Actions allow users to type commands in their Google Chrome browser's address box and trigger a specific settings action in a single step.
- Chrome launched the Actions feature — a collection of navigation-bar-based shortcuts — as part of its version 87 update.
- Chrome Actions is currently available to Chromebook users and is rolling out to all browser users over several weeks.
When it comes to navigating the internet safely and efficiently, Google Chrome offers a suite of features that make it the preferred choice over other browsers.
While the ability to clear your cache and search history or save passwords and payment methods is available in many browsers, Chrome tools such as auto-language translation and incognito — or private browsing sessions — are particularly useful offerings. And now, Google has unveiled Chrome Actions, a series of shortcuts that make performing actions within the browser quicker and easier than ever.
Chrome Actions are a series of commands that, when typed into the Chrome address bar, trigger shortcut options. This makes navigating your browser settings easier by cutting out a slew of steps.
Here are all the Chrome Actions currently available and how to use them.
Google Chrome Actions you can use
At the moment, there are only six actions Chrome users can type into the navigation bar and have the browser perform in a single step.
- To manage passwords: Type "update credentials" or "edit passwords" into the address bar and click on the suggested action which appears below.
- To update Chrome: Type "update browser" or "update google chrome."
- To translate a page: Type "translate this page" or "translate this."
- To manage saved payment methods or add a new one: Type "update card info" or "edit credit card."
- To clear history and browsing data: Type either "wipe cookies," "clear cache," or "delete history."
- To open an Incognito window: Type "incognito" or "launch incognito mode."
How to use Google Chrome Actions
1. Open a new Chrome window.
2. Type a Chrome Action into the address bar.
3. You'll be taken to the corresponding Chrome settings page.
Related coverage from Tech Reference:
101 essential Google Chrome browser keyboard shortcuts for Mac, PC, and Linux users
How to find which version of Google Chrome you're currently using, and update it if needed
How to delete saved passwords on Google Chrome, so that your login data isn't stored by Google
How to go into 'Incognito Mode' on a Google Chrome browser, and stop Google from saving your search and browsing history
How to clear your browsing history on Google Chrome, either all at once or site-by-site