Google has announced a significant expansion of its Chrome browser’s autofill feature, which can now securely store and automatically fill in details from sensitive personal documents, including passports, driver’s licenses, and vehicle registrations. This update is now available globally across all languages for desktop users.
Expanding Autofill Capabilities
Building on its existing ability to manage addresses, passwords, and payment information, Chrome’s enhanced autofill function is designed to streamline processes that require official identification. Desktop users with the feature enabled will see their passport number, driver’s license details, and vehicle information such as license plates or VINs automatically populated in relevant online forms.
Google also highlighted that its technology for understanding complex forms and varied formatting requirements has been improved, leading to greater accuracy and a more seamless user experience across the web.
Security and User Control
Addressing potential privacy concerns, Google emphasizes that all autofill data is saved only with explicit user permission. This sensitive information is protected through encryption. Furthermore, Chrome will prompt users for confirmation before automatically filling in the saved data on any webpage, ensuring an additional layer of user control and security.
A Strategic Move in the AI Browser Race
This update is part of Google’s broader strategy to enhance Chrome’s functionality amidst growing competition from new AI-powered browsers. The company has been actively integrating advanced capabilities into its flagship browser, including the recent rollout of Gemini for all Mac and Windows desktop users in the U.S.
Google’s roadmap for Chrome includes the future addition of agentic AI capabilities, integrating its AI Mode search into the address bar, and leveraging AI to combat sophisticated online scams, demonstrating a clear focus on making the browser smarter and more helpful.
Implications for MENA Users and Startups
For users and businesses across the MENA region, this global rollout offers a notable increase in convenience. The ability to autofill passport and license details can significantly expedite processes for online travel bookings, government e-services, and digital identity verification, which are rapidly expanding sectors in the region.
MENA-based startups, particularly in fintech, travel tech, and e-commerce, stand to benefit from the improved user experience. A smoother and faster form-filling process can lead to higher conversion rates and reduced friction during user onboarding and checkout. As more services move online, this feature could become a key component in optimizing digital interactions for customers in markets like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
About Google
Google is a multinational technology company that specializes in Internet-related services and products, which include online advertising technologies, a search engine, cloud computing, software, and hardware. It is considered one of the Big Five American information technology companies, alongside Amazon, Apple, Meta, and Microsoft.
Source: TechCrunch
