A few years ago, Chrome decided not to add a "mute tab" option, explaining, "After much debate, we decided not to proceed with a tab mute control, as this crosses a very important line: If we provide Chrome controls for content, we’re implying that Chrome should take on a responsibility to police content."[1]

It appears their opinion has changed. Of course, it's likely due to financial reasons[2].

That said, Chrome has blocked pop-ups forever... and I think I agree with this decision, as it will help both Google and content owners. I don't think most people won't install ad blockers if ads aren't obnoxious.

[1]https://thenextweb.com/google/2014/02/11/google-explains-won...

[2]http://www.businessinsider.com/pagefair-2017-ad-blocking-rep...