Chrome will now auto-mute notifications from websites you often ignore
What's the story
Google is introducing a new feature in its Chrome browser that will automatically mute notifications from websites that users frequently ignore. The move, aimed at reducing "notification fatigue," is part of an update for both Android and desktop versions of the browser. The feature builds on Chrome's existing Safety Check tool, which already lets users manage sensitive permissions like camera access and location tracking.
Feature extension
How the new feature works
The new update extends the functionality of Chrome's Safety Check tool to website notifications. It automatically revokes permission for sites that send too many alerts without any user interaction. The feature works like an existing Android capability that lets users unsubscribe from website notifications with a single tap. However, it won't affect web apps installed on the device, only targeting sites with high alert volumes and low user interaction rates.
User engagement
Addressing notification overload
Google has revealed that less than 1% of all web notifications in Chrome get any user interaction, meaning most pop-up alerts are ignored. The tech giant has been testing this feature and found a significant reduction in notification overload with only a minimal change in total notification clicks. Interestingly, websites sending fewer notifications are seeing an increase in clicks.
User control
User control and rollout timeline
Chrome users still have the option to disable the auto-revocation feature completely. They can also re-enable notifications from specific websites by revisiting them or adjusting permissions through Chrome's Safety Check menu. While Google hasn't announced a specific rollout date for this feature, it is expected to be available in an upcoming browser update for all users.