Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
TL;DR
- Google Chrome is testing a Floating Action Button (FAB) for opening new tabs.
- FABs are already used in apps like Gmail and Google Maps for primary actions.
Google Chrome is set to incorporate a new design element known as the Floating Action Button (FAB). FABs are a common feature of Google’s Material Design language, found in key apps like Gmail, Google Maps, and Google Keep. Now, Chrome is joining this group with an innovative new button.
According to Google, a FAB is “a high-emphasis button that enables the user to perform a primary action in an application.” Usually situated at the bottom right corner of the screen, it highlights a single, focused action. In apps like Google Keep, it is used to create new notes, while in Google Maps, it centers the map on the user’s location.
We noticed the new FAB in the most recent beta version of Chrome (127.0.6533.23). It is specifically designed for launching a new tab from the tabs overview screen. Compared to the current top-left position of the new tab button, the FAB in the bottom right corner is a more intuitive and ergonomic choice.
The incorporation of FABs into Google’s ecosystem apps is expected to continue. Apps like Gmail, Google Maps, and Google Keep already utilize FABs for quick actions. Additionally, Google Drive currently features two FABs: one for initiating a new upload/creation process and a newly added camera shortcut for quickly scanning a document. Furthermore, Google has been experimenting with a FAB for Gemini in various apps like Google Messages and Gmail.
Although the Chrome FAB is not yet available in the stable version of Chrome, its presence in the beta version indicates an upcoming public release.
Thanks to Tim Liebrock for the tip and screenshot.