Google is rolling out new productivity features to Chrome for desktop users this week, aiming to streamline workflows without relying on AI enhancements. The updates include PDF annotations, a save to Drive option, and split view for managing multiple tabs simultaneously. These features address long-standing user requests for better document handling and multitasking capabilities.

PDF annotations allow users to highlight text, add notes, and sign documents directly within Chrome without external software. The annotation tool appears as a squiggly icon beside navigation buttons when viewing PDFs, offering customizable pen settings for size and color. The save to Drive feature creates a dedicated folder for documents saved from Chrome, simplifying file organization. Split view enables users to display two tabs side-by-side, reducing the need to constantly switch between windows.

While Google has recently focused on AI-powered features like Help me write and webpage summarization through Gemini, these latest updates take a more traditional approach to productivity. The split view feature, in particular, offers tangible benefits for tasks like reading press releases while drafting responses. For professionals who frequently work with documents and multiple information sources, these updates provide practical tools that enhance efficiency without requiring users to leave their browser environment.