TL;DR

Google has announced major AI updates to Chrome, introducing “auto browse”—an agentic feature that handles complex multi-step tasks on users’ behalf. Built on Gemini 3, the update includes a new side panel experience, image transformation via Nano Banana, and deeper integrations with Google Apps. Chrome will also support Google’s Universal Commerce Protocol, a new open standard for agentic commerce.

Beyond Autofill: True Browser Automation

The auto browse feature represents a significant leap from simple autofill to genuine agentic capability. Available to AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the US, auto browse can handle complex workflows: researching hotel and flight costs across multiple dates, scheduling appointments, collecting tax documents, filling forms, and managing subscriptions.

Google’s testers have used auto browse for everything from getting quotes from tradespeople to renewing driving licences. The feature can even identify items in images, search for similar products, add them to shopping carts, and apply discount codes—all whilst staying within specified budgets.

Connected Apps and Personal Intelligence

The new side panel experience keeps Gemini available across all tabs, enabling multitasking without interruption. Chrome now supports Connected Apps integrations with Gmail, Calendar, YouTube, Maps, Google Shopping and Google Flights, allowing complex cross-app workflows.

In coming months, Google will introduce “Personal Intelligence” to Chrome, which remembers context from past conversations and provides tailored, proactive assistance based on browsing patterns.

Looking Forward

Chrome will support Google’s Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), co-developed with industry leaders including Shopify, Etsy, Wayfair and Target. This open standard ensures AI agents can take actions on users’ behalf seamlessly. Security measures include explicit confirmation prompts for sensitive actions like purchases or social media posts. For businesses, this signals a new paradigm where customers increasingly delegate routine web interactions to AI agents—requiring adaptation in how online services are designed and delivered.