Google is introducing a new feature for its Chrome browser on Android and desktop that automatically disables notifications from websites. The function is designed to reduce notification overload by targeting sites that users are already ignoring.
The auto-revocation feature will only disable permissions for sites that send a large volume of notifications but receive minimal user engagement. According to data released by Google, less than one percent of all web notifications in Chrome currently receive any interaction from users. The company clarified that the feature will not revoke permissions for any web applications that have been installed on a user’s device; it exclusively affects standard website notifications.
This new capability expands on existing Chrome and Android functionalities. It is an extension of an Android feature that already facilitates a single-tap unsubscribe from website notifications. The auto-revocation also complements Chrome’s Safety Check tool, which currently provides users with management over site permissions such as camera access and location tracking.
Google reported on the results of internal trials for the feature. In its announcement, the company stated, “Our test results show a significant reduction in notification overload with only a minimal change in total notification clicks.” The testing also provided additional insights into user behavior and notification efficacy. “Our experiments also indicate that websites that send a lower volume of notifications are actually seeing an increase in clicks,” Google noted.
Users will retain control over the feature. They will have the option to disable the auto-revocation function completely. Alternatively, they can preserve notifications for specific sites by re-enabling permissions directly on the website or by managing them through the Safety Check interface. A specific rollout date for the feature has not yet been confirmed by Google.
