New Chrome Version Adds Extensions, Bookmark Sync
New Chrome Version Adds Extensions, Bookmark Sync
Posted 01/25/2010 at 12:32pm
| by Bart Salisbury
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It’s interesting to watch product development in the raw. Google’s Chrome is just a basic browser. But the underlying technology allows for so much more. Once Google gets Chrome stable it pushes Chrome forward, opening up new features that make it more useful--all of which we get to watch in real-time. Two new features, which appear in the newest stable Windows version of Chrome, are extensions and bookmark synchronization.
Extensions aren’t really new, for Chrome or any other browser. But, Google has moved them out of their beta stage and into the release version. Extensions add versatility to Chrome, allowing easy access to favorite web applications, or streamline common online tasks, such as getting directions or browsing photos. Google says there are now over 1,500 extensions available, ranging from AdThwart to Chromed Bird (for Twitter) to Google Mail Checker.
Bookmark synchronization isn’t a new concept either, but a free version is. Google has built in the option for those with Google accounts. Each computer you use can be set up for near instantaneous syncing of bookmarks, regardless of which computer a bookmark is created on. It’s a simple matter of turning on the sync bookmark preference and letting the “magic” happen.
Not on Windows? Google says that extensions for Linux are in enabled on the beta channel. Mac users, however, are going to have to cool their heels--Google is still working to implement them in the Mac beta.
Image Credit: Google
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MleB
January 26, 2010 at 5:05am
Most of the features / add-ons I use (which granted, aren't a lot) in Firefox seem now to be available as extensions in Chrome, but until Chrome has the tab controls available via TabMix Plus (or, by default, in Maxthon), I won't be moving.
Sure, Firefox has become overweight, a strain on resources and struggles to both and close, but still that hasn't put me off using it over moving to a browser that doesn't work as a I do. Be that IE, Opera or Chrome.
But Firefox 4 really needs to show up soon and be a considerably better and more Lite version of itself if it hopes to continue being competitive.
Tekzel
January 25, 2010 at 4:56pm
I am -> <- this close to switching to Chrome full time. I have used Firefox for so long, that I kind of hate moving over. However, Chrome has come a long ways and now with the extensions I might do it. Its so damn FAST as to be instantaneous. Plus, Google is updating it constantly, other than security and bug fixes, Firefox is updated glacially slow any more.
ceator3571
January 25, 2010 at 6:35pm
I was on FF for a long time too but made the switch. I REALLY like Chrome now (should I have said that in writing here on MaximumPC.com!?). Chrome is so clean, FAST, the extensions work great. I like the bookmark sync. The combined search into the address bar works great and so on.
JohnP
January 25, 2010 at 4:46pm
Only thing holding me back is that Roboform does not play well with Chrome. I have to log onto the website everytime I need to get a password. Not Quite There...
itzabo
January 25, 2010 at 4:13pm
All my favorite Extensions from Firefox.
StumbleUpon
Mouse Gestures
X marks
AdBlock
It imported all of my passwords and favorites from firefox!!
Sweet!!!
Update: Can't print a selection. I guess I do this a lot.
Cy-Kill
January 25, 2010 at 3:14pm
ChromePlus has had these features for a while now, you can find ChromePlus at the following site:
http://www.chromeplus.org/
Cy-Kill
TheMurph
January 25, 2010 at 10:46pm
We just started this last week, friend!
http://www.maximumpc.com/article/web_exclusive/chrome_extension_week_imacros_chrome
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