Google Chrome for Android might soon give users the option of choosing a custom directory for downloaded files, at least according to a recently discovered commit in Chromium Gerrit. As it currently stands, the Chrome browser for Android generally downloads files to a specific “/Downloads” folder and without the ability to change the destination of downloaded items, this particular folder can quickly become a cluttered and collection of seemingly random files that’s difficult to navigate. The option of setting a custom downloads directory seems to be worked on for a future release, though it’s unclear when it might become available to end users.
The problem with having a preset download folder becomes much more of a headache for Android smartphone users who are working with limited on-board storage. Without the ability to set a custom destination folder, situations can occur when users need to relocate existing files from the “Downloads” folder manually in order to make room for new items. Furthermore, numerous file types are usually downloaded with random names, making it difficult for users to quickly find them. Clearly, this is not the ideal experience, but the good news is that Google seems to be working on a fairly straightforward solution to allow Chrome users on Android to set custom directories for downloaded files, whether on the device’s internal memory or the microSD card for appropriately equipped smartphones.
In recent weeks, additional commits in Chromium Gerrit have revealed that the Google Chrome browser for Android OS could also receive support for HDR video playback soon, which should work well with flagship devices offering HDR-enabled displays like the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 and the LG V30. Furthermore, another recent commit revealed that the Chrome browser for Android might eventually introduce a new tool for exporting passwords within the app’s settings screen, though once again, it remains to be seen when that feature will actually become available to end users. The latest stable version of Google Chrome was launched last week as Chrome 63 for Android and includes stability and performance improvements, as well as an enhanced autocomplete feature for the address bar. Meanwhile, Chrome version 64 recently hit the Dev channel and version 65 is being worked on in the Canary channel.