stayontab

Stayontab is a term used in the context of web browsers and productivity software to describe tools and features that help preserve focus on the currently active tab. In its basic form, stayontab provides mechanisms to minimize unintended tab switches by users, automated processes, or page behavior.

Several implementations exist as browser extensions or internal features in some browsers. They typically allow users to designate one tab as anchored, preventing automatic activation of other tabs due to background activity, notifications, or certain scripting events. Some variants offer per-site exemptions, keyboard shortcuts to toggle anchoring, and options to automatically re-anchor after a tab is closed and reopened.

Implementation approaches include background scripts that monitor tab activation events and content scripts that detect focus changes, with data stored locally in browser storage. Cross-browser compatibility relies on standard extension APIs such as tabs and storage, with differences in permission models and event semantics.

Use cases include users who are researching multi-step tasks, professionals who require continuous monitoring of a single page, or accessibility scenarios where screen readers or switch devices benefit from stable tab focus. Critics note that overuse can impede navigation and prevent useful tab switching, potentially wasting time or hiding important alerts.

See also: tab management, focus, distraction-free browsing, session management.