Key Takeaways

  • The Google app on Android will soon include an Incognito-style search mode, similar to iOS.
  • The feature will appear as a ‘History Off Search’ toggle above the search bar.
  • It lets users search privately, with no history or recent activity stored.
  • The feature is already spotted in the Google app v16.42.61.sa.arm64 beta.
  • Rollout is expected in the coming weeks, aligning Android and iOS app parity.

Google’s Search App to Get a Privacy Boost on Android

Android users have long wondered why Google’s app on iOS allows incognito searches, while Android users were left without the same privacy feature. That gap is finally closing.

According to recent findings by Android Authority, the Google app on Android is preparing to introduce a new toggle called “History Off Search”, functioning much like the incognito mode on iOS. This means Android users will soon be able to perform searches that aren’t saved to their account or browsing history.

How It Works

On iOS, users can tap the search bar in the Google app and find an Incognito Mode toggle right above the keyboard. Once enabled, it launches a private search instance — none of the searches or visited sites are recorded.

The upcoming Android version mirrors this experience. In Google app version v16.42.61.sa.arm64 (beta), testers have spotted a new “History Off Search” switch positioned to the right side of the search bar. Activating it opens a Chrome Custom Tab (CCT) in incognito mode, where browsing activity is kept private.

Within this mode, users can explore search results, follow links, and even open sites in Chrome — all while staying in incognito mode automatically.

Why the Change?

The feature addresses a long-standing disparity between Google’s Android and iOS apps. While the iOS version has supported incognito search for months, Android’s omission puzzled users, especially since Android is Google’s own ecosystem.

With privacy expectations rising and competition from privacy-focused browsers like DuckDuckGo, it makes sense for Google to offer consistent private search experiences across platforms.

When Will It Roll Out?

The “History Off Search” feature is not yet live in the stable build of the Google app. However, given its presence in beta testing and full functionality observed by testers, its release to all Android users is expected in the coming weeks — possibly via a server-side update.

This update will likely mark one of Google’s biggest privacy-focused improvements in its native Android app since the introduction of auto-delete options for activity history.

Did You Know?

The Google app processes over 1 billion daily searches globally across Android and iOS. Introducing native incognito search on Android could mark a significant milestone for user privacy and data control within the app ecosystem.

Conclusion

The arrival of incognito search mode in the Google app for Android brings long-awaited feature parity with iOS. The new “History Off Search” toggle empowers users to search privately, browse freely, and maintain better control over their activity data. As the feature moves from beta to stable rollout, Android users can soon expect a smoother, more privacy-conscious Google experience.

FAQs

What is the new feature in the Google app for Android?

It’s called “History Off Search”, a toggle that allows users to perform searches privately without saving them to their Google account or device history.

Is this the same as Incognito Mode on iOS?

Yes, functionally it’s the same. It opens a Chrome Custom Tab in incognito mode, ensuring no recent activity or search history is logged.

Where will I find the option?

You’ll see the “History Off Search” toggle above the keyboard when you tap the search bar in the Google app.

When will it be available?

The feature is currently in beta testing and is expected to roll out to all Android users in the coming weeks.

Yes. Any links you open — even in Chrome — will automatically launch in incognito mode, maintaining your privacy across sessions.

References