Google Chrome can now autofill your passport, driver's license numbers
What's the story
Google has announced an update to its Chrome browser, expanding the capabilities of its autofill feature. The new addition will allow users to automatically fill in details like their passport number, driver's license number, and vehicle registration information. The update builds on Chrome's current ability to autofill addresses, passwords, and payment details.
Feature details
How the new autofill feature works
The enhanced autofill feature is available for desktop users who have enabled the option. When they encounter web pages asking for these details, Chrome will automatically fill in their passport and driver's license numbers as well as vehicle information such as license plate or VIN. This new capability is part of Google's effort to make Chrome more user-friendly amid the rise of new AI browsers.
Enhanced accuracy
Autofill data saved only with user consent
Along with the new autofill feature, Google says Chrome can now better understand complex forms and different formatting requirements. This improvement is expected to enhance accuracy across the web. The tech giant has also assured users that it only saves autofill data with their permission and protects this information through encryption.
Security measures
User confirmation required before filling in data
Before Chrome fills in the saved information on behalf of the user, it will ask for their confirmation. This way, users have complete control over what data gets autofilled. The new updates are available globally in all languages starting today. In the coming months, Google plans to support even more types of data with this feature.
User guide
How to enable the feature?
To enable the enhanced autofill feature, users have to click on the three-dot menu in their browser and go to Settings > Autofill and passwords. Here, they can select 'Enhanced autofill' and toggle it on. Prompts offering to save supported data types will only appear after manual activation of the toggle by the user.