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Google Chrome’s Long-Awaited Autostart Feature Arrives for Windows 11
For many Windows 11 users, Google Chrome is the most frequently used application, often opened even before the desktop fully loads. Recognizing this user behavior, Google is rolling out a new feature that many believe should have been integrated into the browser years ago: an official autostart option for Windows 11.
Chrome to Autostart with Windows 11 Login
While Google Chrome has long supported background app functionalities and extensions that launch with the system, the browser window itself has never automatically opened immediately after logging into Windows 11. This is set to change with the latest iterations of Chrome Canary, Google’s experimental browser version.
The new functionality, which is currently available in Chrome Canary (distinguishable by its yellow icon), allows Chrome to launch a browser window in the foreground as soon as you log into your Windows 11 account. This offers unparalleled convenience for users who want to jump straight into browsing.
The new option to open Chrome when the computer starts is already available in Canary (it’s turned off by default). I tested it and it works exactly as I mentioned in a previous tweet. It opens a Chrome window IN THE FOREGROUND as soon as you log in:https://t.co/dl2LSvhqly pic.twitter.com/5O8aW5eHjg
— Leopeva64 (@Leopeva64) January 27, 2026
How to Access and Manage the Autostart Option
Enabling this feature is straightforward within Chrome’s settings. Once it’s available in your version of Chrome (currently Canary), you can find it by navigating to:
- Chrome Settings
- Look for the “On startup” section
Here, you’ll find the option to automatically launch the browser when your operating system starts. It’s important to note that this feature is disabled by default, ensuring that users have explicit control over their system’s startup behavior. At present, this option is not yet visible in the standard, stable version of Google Chrome.
Performance Considerations: A Balanced Approach
While the convenience of an autostarting browser is undeniable, it’s crucial to consider the potential impact on your system’s performance. A common pitfall for many users is having numerous applications configured to launch automatically at startup. This “parade of autostart apps” can significantly prolong your computer’s boot time and consume valuable system resources, leading to a noticeably slower user experience.
Google’s decision to keep this feature disabled by default is a sensible one. It empowers users to make an informed choice, preventing unintended slowdowns. Users should periodically review and manage their startup applications through Windows 11’s built-in settings to maintain optimal system performance.
To manage your startup applications in Windows 11:
- Open the Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc)
- Go to the “Startup apps” tab
- Here you can see which applications are configured to start with your system and enable or disable them as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Google Chrome Canary?
Google Chrome Canary is an experimental version of Chrome, designed for developers and early adopters. It receives daily updates and includes the newest features and changes that are still under development. While it offers a glimpse into future Chrome functionalities, it can be less stable than the stable version of Chrome.
Will enabling this feature slow down my Windows 11 PC?
Any application set to autostart will consume some system resources during boot-up. If you have many applications starting automatically, it can cumulatively slow down your PC’s startup time. However, Chrome alone might not cause a significant impact unless your system is already resource-constrained. It’s always a good practice to only enable autostart for essential applications you use frequently.
When will this feature be available in the stable version of Google Chrome?
Features introduced in Chrome Canary undergo rigorous testing and refinement. There is no definitive timeline, but typically, features that perform well in Canary and other testing channels eventually make their way to the stable version of Chrome after several weeks or months.
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