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Is the new Google Chrome broswer all it's cracked up to be?

05/10/2008 00:00:00

So Google have joined in the fun as well, and launched their own browser called Google Chrome.Why I hear you ask, well, actually I dont know to be honest. Dont get me wrong, I haveno objections to the fantastic set of tools Google has already equipped web developers with,as I use them daily to make my life a happier place. But, then, the question still lingers,why?
 
Anyway, let's look at the first impressions, specs and background of the Chrome browser to help us better understand what this will mean in our lives.
 
On first impression I find the browser rather light weight looking, simple and straight forward. The installation imports your all your settings from IE or Firefox without any complications. The top URL bar now serves as a search, and site URL bar, rather nifty that this has not been done before? Duh?
 
Chrome is constructed widely from open source projects, such as Apple's WebKit and Mozilla Firefox. So who will be the new adaptors of this technology? Well, suffice to say I would think alterative browser users, such as Opera or Firefox. Simply I dont think enough users are even aware of their browser type, never mind the version! Those who are however, have long since migrated to greener pastures and are enjoying the power of amazing plugins and general safer browser conditions.
 
The question to next arise, I would presume would ponder if new users on Chrome will stick with it?
 
With a MASSIVE marketing engine Google can possibly reach well into the untouched IE market share and educate the users. If this will happen as well, also remains to be seen...
 
Some of the Chrome features include:
 
  • Application Shortcuts (Firefox has had this for ages)
  • Dynamic Tabs (Drag tabs out to open in new window, quite clever)
  • Crash Control (Prevents whole browser from crashing, as just a singular tab crashes)
  • Incognito Mode (now this one got me wondering, why not have an option to clear all cache on exit, like Firefox has? Why reinvent the wheel?)
  • Safe Browsing (Browser warns you about Phishing and malware sites, nothing new to FF)Instant Bookmarks (click the little star, and you are done)
  • Simple Downloads (a nifty download arrow appears, nice looking!)
  • Developer Tools (like the Firebug plug-in for FF, just more limited)
 
Lately, I have ran across some rather troubling topics regarding the anonymity while using the Chrome browser. Strange reports of Google exchanging URL's, search terms,and sending reports of all nature to the mother ship. Presumably to "make Chrome a better browser"but then again, who knows?
 
I find this a rather worrisome accusation myself, as I'm sure no one would like their browser reporting back to some database where and what your actions and sites visited were, it's essentially like someone digging through your rubbish to find information on you. Legal, sure, creepy, hell yes!
 
Here is a rather informative blog I found on the subject, be sure and judge for yourself.
http://www.mattcutts.com/blog/google-chrome-communication/
 
As for me? Well, I'm heading back to Firefox



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