**Google is testing a new Auto Browse feature for Gemini that allows the AI to navigate the web, manage tabs, and interact directly with Chrome. The tool points to a more hands-on role for Gemini and may debut as part of the Gemini Ultra plan.** ![Gemini Auto Browse Brings AI-Controlled Tasks to Chrome](https://www.stanventures.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/G-i0XJmWYAAXbWS-300x155.jpg) Google is expanding what Gemini can do inside Chrome. A new Auto Browse tool has appeared within Gemini’s internal tools menu, signaling that Google is experimenting with giving its AI the ability to handle browser tasks on a user’s behalf.  While the feature is not yet available to the public, its presence offers a clear look at where Google is headed next with AI-assisted browsing The Auto Browse option appears under Gemini’s tools section and is marked with a cursor-style icon. That visual cue, along with supporting code, suggests Gemini would be able to move through web pages, open and manage tabs, and interact with sites directly inside Chrome.    > Google is working on a new tool for Gemini called “Auto Browse”. Auto Browse will Chrome into a proper agentic browser, where Gemini will serve as a control interface. > This addition is a continuation of agentic functionalities announced in September. [pic.twitter.com/uSfS8VkuNS](https://t.co/uSfS8VkuNS) > — TestingCatalog News 🗞 (@testingcatalog) [January 13, 2026](https://twitter.com/testingcatalog/status/2011082578950754693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)   ## How Auto Browse Fits Into Google’s Broader Strategy This test builds on earlier Chrome-based agent features that Google released to a limited group of users in the United States last September.  At that stage, access was restricted, likely to gather feedback and understand real-world use.  The appearance of Auto Browse inside Gemini now suggests development has accelerated and that Google is working to extend Gemini’s reach beyond chat responses and search summaries. The direction closely mirrors a wider trend in AI development. Competing tools such as Perplexity’s [Comet](https://www.stanventures.com/news/perplexity-mobile-expansion-comet-browser-airtel-partnership-3627/) and OpenAI’s [Atlas](https://www.stanventures.com/news/chatgpt-atlas-will-ai-browsing-reshape-seo-4922/) already allow users to hand off complex browsing or research workflows to [AI agents](https://www.stanventures.com/news/ai-agent-trends-6473/).  Google’s approach stands out because it keeps the experience anchored inside Chrome, the browser used by billions of people daily.  Rather than introducing a separate environment, Gemini appears positioned as a built-in assistant that works alongside regular browsing. ## What the Chrome Integration Tells Us Code references tied to Auto Browse show checks confirming whether Gemini is running within a Chrome extension. This points to a sidebar-style setup, where Gemini could remain visible while users browse.  In practice, this could let someone ask Gemini to research a topic, follow links, compare sources, or monitor updates without constantly switching tabs or copying information between tools. That level of integration would make Gemini less about answering isolated questions and more about supporting ongoing tasks.  Research sessions, competitive analysis, or multi-step information gathering could become more streamlined, especially for users who already rely heavily on Chrome for work. ## Who Is Likely to Get Access First Early indicators suggest Auto Browse may be tied to the Gemini Ultra plan. If that proves accurate, the feature would initially target professionals and power users rather than casual audiences.  Researchers, marketers, analysts, and developers are the most likely to benefit from an AI that can handle repetitive or time-consuming browser actions. A premium rollout would also give Google room to test limits, permissions, and safety controls before expanding access. Allowing AI to act inside a browser introduces real concerns around transparency and user trust.  Restricting early access helps Google refine how actions are triggered, monitored, and reversed if needed. ## Why This Matters Beyond One Feature Auto Browse signals a bigger change in how Google views AI assistance. Instead of stopping at recommendations or summaries, Gemini is being shaped into an active participant in everyday workflows.  If successful, this approach could reduce friction across many web-based tasks, from research to routine administrative work. At the same time, Google’s measured pace suggests it understands the risks. An AI that can click, scroll, and navigate must be predictable and clearly accountable to the user. Testing Auto Browse quietly and possibly behind a paid tier reflects a focus on getting those details right before wider adoption. ## Practical Guidance for Users Anyone interested in AI-powered browsing should keep an eye on Gemini updates, particularly those tied to Chrome extensions and premium plans.  Users who depend on heavy research or multi-tab workflows may want to evaluate whether agent-style tools fit their needs.  As these features mature, understanding permission settings and activity visibility will be just as important as the capabilities themselves. ## The Bigger Picture Auto Browse is another step toward making Gemini an action-oriented assistant rather than a passive guide.  While the feature remains in testing, it highlights Google’s intent to bring AI deeper into the browser experience.  If rolled out broadly, it could change how people interact with the web, moving from manual navigation to task-based delegation. ## Key Takeaways - Google is testing an Auto Browse feature that allows Gemini to actively navigate and control Chrome, moving the AI beyond answers and into real task execution. - The feature appears designed for deep browser integration, likely through a Chrome extension or sidebar, keeping Gemini present during active browsing sessions. - Early technical signals suggest Auto Browse may launch under the Gemini Ultra plan, indicating Google sees agent-style browsing as a premium capability. - This development places Google directly alongside competitors building AI agents that handle research and multi-step workflows instead of passive search. - The limited testing and staged rollout suggest Google is prioritizing user control, transparency, and reliability before making AI-driven browsing widely available.