I used the Beta version of Google’s new browser, Chrome, tonight. The first thing I noticed is that it looks like a file folder, which I like (Firefox appeals more than IE for that reason). The second thing I noticed is that the front page is actually a tile of all the pages you visit most frequently, which was ingenious. I liked having it all there since I rarely actually want to start on my homepage.
I actually worried for Google a few weeks ago when Cuil came out. Not because I thought Cuil was going to overtake Google, but because it reminded me that it had been a while since I’d seen anything new from Google. The browser assured me that Google was still busy at work, creating products people really like.
Chrome has a few new browser functions that will catch on instantly. The bookmarks are on the upper right hand corner. You click a bookmark icon and they open on the right margin. A function to go “incognito” will make sure you don’t leave any cookies while you surf. That was one of those items that make you wonder why someone else didn’t think of that sooner.
Though I suppose I must ask (and everyone will eventually): isn’t it a wee bit spooky how much Google knows about us? They have us on GoogleMaps, GoogleEarth, and Gmail, they have our search histories… and now our browsing histories. I don’t think they’re doing anything evil with that data but I am pretty sure if they were, I’d use Google to research it.
Things They Say