Users Unhappy with Google’s Changes to Chrome’s Bookmarking Process

Transformations in Bookmarking Flow for Google Chrome

Google has recently revamped the process of adding bookmarks within the Chrome web browser. Although users can still initiate bookmarking by clicking on the familiar bookmark star icon in the address bar, this action now leads to an updated, minimalist interface designed to enhance user experience.

Unpacking the New Bookmarking Interface

The redesigned bookmarking dialog presents a simplified view, showcasing the folder to which the bookmark is saved, along with buttons labeled “Done”and “Edit,”and a prompt to activate synchronization.

Comparison with the Previous Bookmarking Interface

In contrast to the new design, the earlier bookmarking interface afforded users immediate editing capabilities, including altering the bookmark name and its folder right away. Additionally, a remove option was readily available, catering to those who may accidentally activate the bookmark star icon.

Navigating the New Features

While the new dialog continues to allow users to edit bookmark details, it introduces an extra step. To change the folder, you must click the displayed folder name or tap the “Edit”button.

Clicking “Edit”unveils further options to modify the bookmark’s name and location within the browser, alongside the option to delete the bookmark if necessary.

Understanding URL Edits

Interestingly, if you opt to edit a bookmark’s folder during the addition process, you gain the ability to change its URL—an essential feature for users who frequently reorganize their bookmarks.

This URL editing feature underscores the need for effective bookmark management and is only accessible when the bookmarks folder is selected within the add bookmark dialog.

Alternative Bookmark Management

If you need to change the URL, an alternative method involves accessing the bookmarks management interface. To do this:

Select Menu > Bookmarks> Show all Bookmarks to open the bookmarks sidebar.
Find your desired bookmark, click the menu icon beside it, and choose Edit from the context menu.
Alternatively, direct navigation to chrome://bookmarks/ will also open the classic bookmarks manager of Chrome.

Concluding Thoughts

The alterations in the bookmarking process within Google Chrome mark a significant shift. Although the fundamental action of adding a bookmark remains simple—just a click on the star icon—customization now necessitates at least one additional click for tasks like renaming bookmarks or adjusting their folders. For editing URLs, users are directed to specific menus rather than the immediate interface. Reflecting on past changes, this update echoes the 2017 transition when Google modified the Done and Remove buttons, a shift that sparked similar dissatisfaction among users.

It’s clear that these changes might impact frequent or power users more significantly than casual users of the browser.

Your Turn

How do you utilize bookmarks in your browsing experience?

Additional Insights

1. What are the main changes in the bookmarking process in Google Chrome?

The main changes include a redesigned dialog that eliminates immediate editing options, requiring additional clicks for customization tasks such as changing bookmark names, folders, and URLs.

2. How can I access the bookmarks manager in Chrome?

You can access the bookmarks manager by selecting Menu > Bookmarks > Show all Bookmarks, or directly navigating to chrome://bookmarks/ in the address bar.

3. Why are users unhappy with the new bookmarking flow?

Users are frustrated because the updates complicate previously straightforward tasks by adding extra steps for customization, making the process less efficient, especially for power users.

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