Google Chrome's Incognito mode for Android now locks shameful private browsing tabs.
The new handy feature of the mobile web browser enables users to employ their fingerprints to hide Incognito tabs from pesky lurkers.
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Google Chrome Now Locks Incognito Tabs
According to the latest report by 9to5 Google, the renowned search engine has had a similar feature for the iPhone version of its apps.
Google iOS apps sport a so-called Privacy Screen function that lets users require either Touch or Face ID to access apps like Chrome or Drive.
And this time, the tech giant is also bringing it to Android users, particularly on the Google Chrome browser.
The online media outlet reports that Chrome on Android gains a new handy function that lets users lock their private browsing sessions while on Incognito mode.
How Does the New Incognito Lock Feature Work
The new feature automatically triggers once a Chrome user exits the app. From there, all their Incognito tabs would now require authentication to be accessible.
And as such, when users try to open the browser once again, a nearly blank screen welcomes them. It only shows the Incognito icon and two options below.
The buttons on the lower part of the screen allow users to choose between "Unlock Incognito" and "See other tabs" options.
A person holds an iphone showing the app for Google chrome search engine. PA Photo. Picture date: Friday January 3, 2020. by Andrew Matthews/PA Images via Getty Images
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f you opt for the "Unlock Incognito" route, the app would require you to provide your fingerprint to access private tabs. A prompt would then explain that it is required to "verify it's you."
Aside from the fingerprint option, there is also a way to "Use PIN." However, it is slightly hidden on the lower-left side of the screen.
According to a report by Android Authority, the new private tab lock feature is not enabled right off the bat. In fact, users still need to turn on the function manually.
To do so, go straight ahead to the "Privacy and Security" settings and toggle the "Lock Incognito tabs when you leave Chrome."
Google Has Yet to Roll Out Incognito Lock to All Chrome Users
It is worth noting that the privacy feature has yet to roll out officially. But there is an easy way to get your hands on it right away.
9to5 Google notes that the screen lock feature on Incognito is now available via Chrome flag.
To try it out ahead of its general release, enter this on the address or search bar of Chrome on Android: chrome://flags/#incognito-reauthentication-for-android.
