After years of lagging behind its Apple counterpart, the Google app on Android is finally catching up. A long-requested privacy feature, already available on iOS for ages, is now making its way to Android devices – and privacy-conscious users have every reason to celebrate.

If you’ve ever used the Google app, you’ll know it’s more than just a search bar. It’s a Swiss Army knife of digital tools: you can look up information by text or image, identify a song playing nearby, browse trending news, or even get personalised recommendations. It’s the kind of app that quietly becomes indispensable.

But there’s been a long-standing imbalance between platforms. While iPhone users enjoyed an advanced privacy setting within the Google app, Android users – ironically, Google’s own crowd – were left waiting until now.

The upcoming update will add a new “Search History Off” toggle right inside the app’s search bar. When activated, it opens your query in a Chrome incognito tab, directly within the Google app. That means your search won’t be saved, tracked, or linked to your account – an elegant way to keep your digital curiosity private.

How it works

Here’s how it plays out: tap the search bar, and instead of the usual list of recent queries, you’ll now see a discreet option labeled “Search History Off” (though the final name may change before rollout). Toggle it on, and Google quietly switches to a private browsing mode.

You can then carry out your search as usual – whether it’s a quick look at medical symptoms (we’ve all been there) or something you don’t want stored in your history. The results page appears as usual, but without leaving a digital footprint in your Google account.

In essence, this is the same incognito search mode iOS users have enjoyed for years. And while it’s slightly puzzling that Android had to wait this long, it’s better late than never.

A win for privacy-conscious users

The feature arrives at a time when concerns about online privacy are greater than ever. According to a recent Pew Research Center study, more than 80% of internet users say they worry about how their data is collected and stored online.

By allowing searches that don’t automatically feed into your history, Google gives users a small but meaningful way to take back control. Whether you’re researching gifts without spoiling a surprise or checking sensitive information, it’s reassuring to know those queries won’t follow you around in ads or recommendations.

It’s also a smart move strategically. For years, Google has faced criticism over its data practices, and offering transparent privacy options like this helps rebuild trust.

Still no date, but anticipation builds

Google hasn’t yet confirmed exactly when this feature will roll out globally, but early testers have already spotted it in beta versions of the app. The update is expected to reach all Android users in the coming months.

If you’re among those who’ve envied iPhone users’ access to private search mode, the wait is nearly over. Soon, you’ll be able to flick that privacy switch yourself and search freely without leaving a trace.

In a world where every click feels monitored, it’s refreshing to see Google finally give Android users a little digital breathing room. Sometimes, the most minor update can make the most significant difference – especially when it’s about keeping your searches truly yours.