With the latest update to their core iOS app, Google gives iPhone and iPad users the ability to go incognito with their searches and lock them using Touch ID.

Hide your searches from prying eyes

Many users will already be familiar with Google Chrome’s incognito mode. Activating the popular feature allows you to wander the web safe in the knowledge that your session is private. Browsing history, downloads, passwords and cookies are not saved when your session is closed. That means that any sensitive stuff you don’t want other people to see or know about goes ‘poof!’ as soon as you close your incognito tabs or windows.

Now, for the first time, incognito mode is available to users of Google's core app on iOS devices. You no longer need Chrome to go undercover. 

A touch of security

The addition of Touch ID security to incognito mode makes it even more convenient to maintain your privacy. Traditionally, incognito browsing sessions remain visible until they are closed. That means that if you wander away from your computer or device without finishing your session, your incognito activities will remain visible should someone take a look—even accidentally.  Lets say your kids have picked up your phone, or a colleague wants to borrow your device. If you haven’t closed your tabs, they’ll still be there for all to see.

Locking your sessions with Touch ID offers a failsafe. If anyone that isn’t you should happen to unlock your device, your private activities will be automatically hidden from view. You can leave your incognito sessions in progress and return to them later, secure in the knowledge that they are hidden from prying eyes in the meantime.

Not entirely anonymous

The added comfort of viewing privacy is sure to be well received by Google app users. However, it's worth remembering that just like incognito mode on your Chrome browser, the iOS app version does not make your online activities fully anonymous. Your employer, ISP and websites you visit will still know where you’ve been. There just won’t be any trace left on your device.