What are Chrome Actions? How to use Google Chrome's address bar shortcuts to update passwords or payment methods, delete search history, and more

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What are Chrome Actions? How to use Google Chrome's address bar shortcuts to update passwords or payment methods, delete search history, and more
You can use Chrome Actions shortcuts to easily navigate to certain browser settings.Ali Balikci/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
  • 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.
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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.

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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.

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  • 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.

What are Chrome Actions? How to use Google Chrome's address bar shortcuts to update passwords or payment methods, delete search history, and more
A small Chrome icon will appear next to the browser action.Jennifer Still/Business Insider

3. You'll be taken to the corresponding Chrome settings page.

What are Chrome Actions? How to use Google Chrome's address bar shortcuts to update passwords or payment methods, delete search history, and more
When you hit enter, Chrome will redirect you to the action's respective settings page.Abbey White/Business Insider

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