Can I switch the Google search bar location on my phone to the original layout?

Why is my Chrome address bar at the bottom and how do I move it back?

Recent updates to Google Chrome for Android introduced a significant interface shift: the address bar, also known as the omnibox, now rests at the screen’s bottom. While this design aims to aid one-handed use on taller screens, it often disrupts years of muscle memory. If you find your thumb instinctively reaching for the top, you are not alone. Fortunately, you can revert this change quickly.​

We will outline two methods: the standard settings approach (for modern versions) and the advanced configuration method using Chrome Flags (for older versions or forced overrides).

Method 1: The Built-in Settings (Recommended)

Google now includes a native option to toggle this feature without technical commands. This is the safest and most stable method.

Using the Long-Press Gesture

1. Open Chrome on your Android device.
2. Press and hold the address bar at the bottom for one second.
3. Tap the “Move address bar to top” option that appears.​​

Using the Settings Menu

1. Tap the three-dot menu icon ($\vdots$) in the browser corner.
2. Select “Settings” from the dropdown list.
3. Scroll to find and tap “Address bar.”
4. Choose “Top” to restore the classic layout immediately.​

Method 2: The Chrome Flags Solution (Advanced)

If the native settings are missing from your device, you can force the layout change using Chrome Flags. Flags are experimental features that allow deep customization of the browser engine.

Step 1: Access the Flags Menu

Launch your Chrome browser. In the address bar (currently at the bottom), type the following command and press Enter: chrome://flags

Step 2: Locate the Toolbar Configuration

You will see a search box at the top of the Flags page. Type keywords like “bottom toolbar” or “address bar” into this box. Specifically, look for a flag labeled: Android Bottom Toolbar or Bottom Toolbar v2

Alternatively, you can copy and paste this direct link if your version supports it: chrome://flags#android-bottom-toolbar

Step 3: Modify and Relaunch

Tap the dropdown menu next to the flag, which likely says “Default.” Change this setting to “Disabled.”

Once changed, a “Relaunch” button will appear at the bottom right. Tap “Relaunch” to restart Chrome. Your browser will close and reopen with the address bar restored to its original position at the top.​

You now have the address bar back where it belongs. Whether you used the simple settings toggle or the advanced flags menu, your browsing experience should now match your habits. If you encounter issues or if future updates shift the menu locations again, please leave a comment below for further assistance.