Pop Quiz Time!
What do you call that box at the top of your Chrome browser?
A. Search Portal Supreme
B. Magic Type Oval
C. Google Search Bar
D. The Omnibox
If you picked D – The Omnibox, gold star for you!
But hold on—what about that search box on the Google homepage? Let’s break it down.
Chrome Omnibox vs. Google Search Bar: What’s the Difference?
- Chrome Omnibox: This is Chrome’s combined address bar and search bar at the top of the browser. You can type in URLs, search terms, and even perform tasks like calculations, conversions, definitions, or chatting with Gemini—all from one place.
- Google Search Bar: This appears on the Google homepage or in new browser tabs set to Google. It connects to Google Search but doesn’t offer all the extra features the omnibox does.
Omnibox Magic: 9 Things You Didn’t Know It Could Do
The omnibox is more than just a search tool. It’s a multitasking powerhouse. Try these features and see for yourself:
1. Quick Calculations
Type: 45 * 3 + 18
→ Instantly see the result without opening a calculator.
2. Unit Conversions
Type: 5 miles to km or 32 F to C
→ Converts units automatically and displays the answer.
3. Timer & Stopwatch
Type: timer 2 minutes or start stopwatch
→ Starts a countdown or stopwatch right in your browser.
4. Check the Weather
Type: weather austin tx
→ See current weather conditions instantly.
5. Define a Word
Type: define serendipity
→ View the definition and pronunciation without clicking a link.
6. Currency Conversions
Type: 50 USD to Euros
→ Instantly see the latest exchange rate.
7. Track Flights
Type: UA201 (or any airline and flight number)
→ Check the real-time flight status, gate, and departure/arrival info.
8. Search a Specific Website
Type: site:tcea.org breakout games
→ Limits your search to results from just that website.
9. Search with Keywords
Type: images of solar eclipse or videos about volcanoes
→ Pulls up targeted results based on what you’re looking for.
Try It Out!
The omnibox isn’t just a place to type a web address—it’s a powerful tool built to boost your efficiency. Test out a few of these features and level up your browser skills. You just might find your new favorite shortcut. And don’t forget if you have an omnibox magic trick, please share in the comments below.