Google 'Clone'

Google have made 'Chrome' their new browser - publicly available now as a BETA version. which can be downloaded and tried out for yourself by clicking here

I'm going to share my thoughts and opinions on Google's new assault on the Microsoft frontline.

First off, from the appearance it just looks like a blend of Internet Explorer, Firefox and opera.



There are elements that have basically been copy/pasted across browsers in i guess what Google see as the best set up.

A lot of features are direct copies of the Opera browser when we boot up Chrome the start window is most viewed pages which seems almost identical to Opera's speed dial tool which is customizable. I'm not sure whether Chromes copy allows you to customize it or whether it is based on browsing stats.

Chrome is very spacious - no clutter of toolbars so far which is a refreshing change. When i max the window i get an odd feeling though, like its too open. That will just require getting used to i guess.



Chrome has also disposed of file, Edit & View, etc, like IE. I don't like this as i like to be able to know where i need to go to do a certain task, with IE and Chrome it requires extra thinking and extra steps but again, just requires getting used to. IE users will adapt easily. This is one of the factors which gives Chrome that open and bare feel to it though.

The most original feature i have come across with Chrome is the 'incognito' mode which opens a window which does not save cookies or browsing history, etc. great for multislacking and other stuff that could compromise your reputation.

Another nice little feature which i think i should include is that when you are typing something into the address bar it has suggested links bellow what you are typing. Which can come in handy i guess.

To conclude my little browser ramble Chrome is a nice browser but its nothing special a few nice little features but what i like most is the open plan design - very clean with plenty of browsing space. I just counted and chrome has only 13 clickable features - its very empty with out compromising functionality the use of sub menus gives it this very organised - tidied away feel.

If you are messy like me it feels too sterile and foreign - I'm going to stick to Firefox with my mess of tabbed bookmarks, functionality and easy of use.

I'd love to hear your thoughts.

-Sam

To see all Google Chrome's new features Click here.