Google Chrome

Google recently released their own web browser for Windows XP and Vista. It's called Chrome and can be downloaded from www.google.com/chrome.

Within hours of the release Chrome had a 1% market share of browsers and within the first week it was estimated that Chrome was the 3rd most popular browser being used on the Internet. It also has a 4.5 Star rating out of a possible 5 from PC World.

Chrome is built on what Google deems to be the best of both Apple Safari and Mozilla FireFox. As a result it loads web pages quicker, offers search suggestions, is safer, and in Google-style, there is little clutter.

Google Chrome has the same common features of other browsers such as tabs but Chrome has a number of other excellent features that makes browsing much easier.

Please note that Chrome is still in Beta so it is still being developed. This will be updated as Chrome is updated. So far, the browser is only for Windows XP and Vista. Mac users can register to be notified when the Mac version is available here: http://www.google.com/chrome/intl/en/mac.html.

Installation and use

Chrome will install itself with minimal input from you. It will also import all of your bookmarks, passwords, downloads and other information from your older browser(s).

Once installed, in true Google cosmetics you will not be overwhelmed with menus and buttons. The interface is simple and uncluttered.

Chrome loads faster than other browsers and has the Google search engine built into the address bar. If you type a word in the address bar it will offer either a Google search for the term (or you can choose a different default search engine) or if you have previously been to a web site with that name in the sites pages or address, Chrome will suggest that web site to revisit.

A new feature is a page that you can use as your homepage or the new page for a new tab. The new feature has thumbnail images of your most frequently visited web sites so you can quickly access your favourite sites.

Unlike other browsers, Chrome will not crash your whole browser if one tab crashes. Just the one tab will crash.

How Chrome effects your web site?

Since Chrome is built using technology from FireFox and Safari there should be no issues with your web sites being viewed correctly in Chrome.

During the evaluation period, I have viewed pages that are designed for IE and Mozilla without any issues. I have also used proprietary CMS platforms using Chrome which I could not do with Mozilla. This gives you the choice to use one browser for all Web related work.

English not your Language of choice?

Chrome is available in many different languages accessible from the “downloads” page. If you require Chrome is a different language there is the option to localise (translate) it yourself, as it is Open Source.

IDG Australia have a list of 7 reasons to use Chrome as well as 7 reasons not to use Chrome: www.pcworld.idg.com.au/index.php/id;1915182356. The list is a great start to discuss within your organisation if you are discussing implementing Chrome.

- Karaitiana Taiuru