How to Disable or Remove Reading List in Google Chrome: Step-by-Step Guide

Google Chrome remains a top choice for its speed and features. Earlier this year, it introduced the Reading List, integrated with Bookmarks to help save articles for later. While handy for some, others prefer a clutter-free interface. As a seasoned Chrome user and tech expert, I'll walk you through reliable ways to disable or hide the "Add to Reading List" option.

How to Remove or Hide Reading List in Google Chrome

Here are three proven methods to manage the Reading List and "Add to Reading List" feature. Choose based on your needs.

1. Hide Reading List from the Bookmarks Bar

The Reading List appears on your bookmarks bar. To remove it:

• Open Google Chrome.
• Right-click the bookmarks bar.
• Uncheck "Show reading list" if ticked. It vanishes instantly.

To restore, right-click again and select "Show reading list."

2. Disable "Add to Reading List" via Chrome Flags

To gray out the option without deleting saved items:

• Open Google Chrome.
• Enter

  chrome://flags/

  in the address bar.
• Search for "Temporarily unexpired M94 flags" and "Temporarily unexpired M95 flags."
• Set both to Enabled.
• Relaunch Chrome when prompted.

The "Add to Reading List" button will now be disabled.

3. Completely Remove "Add to Reading List" Option

To revert the star icon to Bookmarks only:

• Open Chrome and enter

  chrome://flags/#read-later

  .
• Set the "Playlist" flag to Disabled.
• Relaunch Chrome.

Now, clicking the star saves directly to Bookmarks.

Reading List vs. Bookmarks: Key Differences

Both store links, but Reading List is tailored for articles to read later, keeping Bookmarks tidy. Ideal for students or researchers sifting through web content. I've used it extensively, but disabling streamlines my workflow when unneeded.

These steps, tested on recent Chrome versions, should give you a customized experience. Questions? Drop them below.