How to Enable the Gemini Sidebar in Chrome on Linux

Want to use Google's Gemini AI directly inside Chrome on Linux? You may be able to enable Chrome's built-in Gemini integration by changing an experimental browser flag.

The feature, internally known as Glic, can enable Gemini integration in Chrome, including a sidebar-style experience on supported configurations. Here's how to try it on your Linux desktop.

Step 1: Open Chrome Flags

Launch Google Chrome and enter the following address in the address bar:

chrome://flags

Press Enter to open Chrome's experimental features page.

Step 2: Find the Glic Flag

In the search box at the top of the page, type:

Glic

Look for the flag named Enables glic, with a description indicating support for Mac, Windows, Linux, ChromeOS, and Android.

You can also navigate directly to the flag using this link:

chrome://flags/#glic

Step 3: Enable Glic

Locate the dropdown menu next to the Enables glic option.

1. Click the dropdown menu.
2. Select Enabled.
3. Leave the other flags unchanged for now.

This activates the experimental Glic feature flag in your Chrome configuration.

Step 4: Relaunch Chrome

After enabling the flag, Chrome will display a Relaunch button at the bottom of the page.

Click Relaunch to restart the browser and apply the change.

Save any unfinished work in your open tabs before restarting.

Step 5: Open Gemini in Chrome

Once Chrome restarts, look for a Gemini button or other Gemini entry point in the browser interface.

If the integration is available for your Chrome version and account, you may be able to open Gemini alongside the webpage you're viewing.

This makes it easier to ask questions about a page, get help with research, and use AI without constantly switching between tabs.

Troubleshooting: Gemini Sidebar Still Missing?

If enabling Glic doesn't make the Gemini button or sidebar appear, try the following:

• Check your Chrome version: Update Chrome to the latest version available for your Linux distribution.
• Look for related flags: Search chrome://flags for Glic side panel. If that option exists, try enabling it and relaunching Chrome.
• Check Chrome settings: If available, look under Settings → AI innovations → Gemini in Chrome for options to show the Gemini button.
• Remember that flags are experimental: Enabling Glic does not guarantee that the complete Gemini interface will appear. Availability can depend on your Chrome build, account, region, and Google's rollout.

It's easy, but shouldn't be a chore

Getting Gemini integrated into Chrome on Linux may be as simple as enabling the Glic flag and restarting your browser. However, the flag alone may not unlock every part of the experience on every Linux installation.

If it works on your setup, you'll have a convenient way to bring Google's AI closer to your everyday browsing workflow without leaving Chrome.