Feature Request: Disable Chrome Address/Search Bar on Android Enterprise Fully Managed Devices
We use Google Chrome on Android Enterprise Fully Managed shared devices. Chrome is required for several business use cases including Chrome Custom Tabs (CCT) authentication flows and PWA/web applications.
Our environment follows a shared-device model where associates check devices in and out throughout the day. While Chrome is needed for business workflows, users can sometimes reach the full Chrome browser through links opened from applications, authentication flows, PWAs, or other navigation paths.
Unless I'm missing something, I have not found a supported Chrome Enterprise app configuration that allows administrators to disable or hide the Chrome address/search bar (omnibox) on Android managed devices. Current options appear to be URL allowlists and blocklists.
The challenge with URL-based controls is that they can become difficult to maintain at scale. Business applications often introduce new URLs, redirects, and endpoints over time, which can create ongoing administrative overhead and potential access issues.
A feature request we would love to see is a managed configuration that disables or hides the omnibox while still allowing Chrome to be used for approved business purposes such as CCT authentication and managed web applications. This would help prevent users from freely browsing non-work websites if they reach the browser while still preserving required business functionality.
Microsoft Edge currently offers similar controls, but we would prefer to continue using Chrome as our enterprise browser.
Is there another recommended approach today for Android Enterprise Fully Managed shared devices that allows Chrome to support CCT/PWA use cases while preventing general web browsing without relying on large URL allowlists and blocklists?
Thanks!
