Google Chrome has a secret feature to make it match Windows 11’s new design

The new rounded corners and glass-like mica effects are some of Windows 11’s standout features. These design features, which are usually only found in Microsoft and select third-party Windows apps, are now making their way into Google Chrome, but they’re still concealed behind a flag in Chrome’s settings.

Chrome on Windows 11 blends in better with the rest of the new operating system after the hidden flag is activated. Chrome’s right-click menus are rounded instead of squared off, and they also have the current mica effect. Furthermore, Chrome’s pop-out settings menu takes on a more rounded design, making it more compatible with native Windows components such as the Start Menu and Quick Actions pop-out.

If you want to use the functionality right now to make Chrome feel more modern, you’ll need to upgrade to Chrome 96 first. Simply go to the settings menu, click Help, and then About Google Chrome from the three downward-facing dots at the top of the screen. After that, the browser will auto-update and restart.

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In the address bar of Chrome version 96, type Chrome:/flags. You can copy it and paste it into the box. After that, look for Windows 11 and turn on Windows 11 Style Menus. After that, Chrome will reload, and you’ll be able to see the new rounded menus by right-clicking on a webpage.

Surprisingly, setting this flag in Google Chrome on Windows 10 also gives the earlier Microsoft operating system the same aesthetic features. It’s a clever little hack for individuals who wish to experience some of Windows 11’s visual aspects without really upgrading to the new operating system.

Of course, a third-party tool like Start11 can be used to make Windows 10 look more like Windows 11. The program centers the Taskbar and allows you to relocate the Taskbar and Start Menu to the top of the screen in Windows 11.

These mica effects and rounded corners are even liked by Microsoft. Microsoft’s Edge browser, which uses the same engine as Google Chrome, received a flag to activate these same Windows 11 design elements back in July. Since it’s become the standard look.