GOOGLE CHROME ADDS SAFARI DATA IMPORT OPTION ON IPHONE

Google is preparing a notable update to Google Chrome on the iPhone that directly targets one of the biggest pain points for users who want to switch mobile browsers.

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WHAT IS CHANGING IN CHROME FOR IOS

Beginning with Chrome version 145, currently available in beta, iPhone users will be able to import key browsing data from Safari directly on their device, without needing to complete the process on a Mac or PC.

The new option introduces an on-device guided flow that helps users bring over bookmarks, saved passwords, and browsing history from Safari. Until now, Chrome on iOS required users to rely on desktop-based synchronization or manual workarounds to recreate their browsing environment, which often discouraged switching browsers altogether.

WHY SAFARI DATA IMPORT HAS BEEN LIMITED ON IOS

Apple's privacy and security framework has long restricted how third-party browsers access system-level data on iOS. While browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, and Edge are built on Apple's WebKit engine, access to Safari’s stored data remains tightly controlled. Direct, silent transfers of passwords or history between apps are not permitted.

Google's new approach works within those constraints. Rather than performing an automatic background transfer, Chrome presents step-by-step instructions that guide users through Apple-approved export and permission flows. This design allows data to move securely while staying compliant with iOS privacy rules.

HOW THE NEW IMPORT PROCESS WORKS