Steps to reproduce the problem

Open any target=_blank link

Problem Description

Currently, Chrome forces links to open in new tabs instead of new windows. While this may be the default behavior, it is highly counterproductive for many users who rely on Alt+Tab for efficient task switching. Unlike switching between windows, tab navigation is restrictive and inefficient.

The lack of an option to disable tabs and always open links in a new window creates usability issues, including:

• Hidden Content – Tabs bury open pages, making them invisible and easy to forget.
• Inefficient Navigation – Ctrl+Tab cycles through tabs in one direction, instead of toggling between the last two active ones (like Alt+Tab).
• Disrupted Task Switching – Users cannot quickly switch between specific pages using standard OS-level shortcuts.

Previously, the Tab-less extension allowed users to bypass tabs entirely, but recent Chrome updates have broken it, leaving no viable alternative.

Proposed Solution Introduce a "Disable Tabs" option in Chrome settings that forces all links and new page actions to open in a separate window instead of a tab. This should apply to:

Clicking links that default to opening in a new tab. Middle-clicking (or Ctrl+Click) on links. Opening bookmarks or search results. This feature would ensure that users who prefer a window-based workflow can continue using Chrome efficiently without being forced into tabbed browsing.

Why This Matters Not all users find tab organization beneficial. The assumption that tabs are the best way to manage browser content ignores alternative workflows. Users should have the choice to work in a way that best suits their productivity.

Please consider adding this feature to improve Chrome’s usability for those who prefer a tab-less browsing experience.

Summary

Disable tabs (tabbed browsing).

Additional Data

Category: UI
Chrome Channel: Stable
Regression: N/A