If you are a user of Google Chrome, you might have observed a peculiar behavior. When you log into any Google service, such as Gmail or Google Drive, your browser automatically signs you in as well.
While some users might find this feature helpful due to its synchronization and personalization advantages, others may view it as intrusive.
Here are a few reasons why:
- You might choose to avoid Google Account-specific features in Chrome and prefer to remain logged out.
- You may want to manage different accounts across various Google platforms.
- Concerns about privacy may arise.
By default, Chrome is set up so that signing into a Google Account on any Google-owned site will also sign you into the browser itself.
Tip: Don’t forget to check out our guide on disabling toast popups in Google Chrome.
Disabling the Connection Between Google Account and Chrome
Fortunately, disabling this feature in Chrome is a simple process. Here’s how to do it:
- Type chrome://settings/syncSetup into the Chrome address bar. This will open the Sync and Google services settings for your browser.
- Turn off the “Allow Chrome sign-in” option found under “Other Google services.” When disabled, this option will appear grayed out.
Keep in mind that you may need to restart your browser for the Google Account to be signed out from Chrome. Alternatively, you can log out during your session by clicking the profile icon in the address bar and selecting the “sign out of Chrome” option.
Logging Into Chrome Alongside Other Google Services
Google is in the process of rolling out a new feature concerning sign-ins. Currently, it is available via Chrome Canary, though it may not be accessible to every user yet.
Named “Sign in to Chrome when you sign in to other Google services,” this feature is set to default to “sign in,” maintaining the existing configuration in most aspects. Essentially, Chrome will likely sign you in automatically when you log into a Google product online.
The other two choices include “don’t sign in” and “ask every time.” The first option would be similar to completely turning off the “allow Chrome sign-in” feature, while the second option will prompt you every time you log in, giving you the chance to decide if you want to sign into Chrome using that Google account.
If you wish to avoid this situation altogether, think about switching to an alternative browser. This transition could improve your overall privacy, as it would mean using a browser not operated by an advertising company. In such a case, you could also continue using uBlock Origin.
When it comes to browsers, which one do you currently favor and why? We invite you to share your opinions in the comments below.
Image Source: TY Lim / Shutterstock
