|
Google developed its new browser, Chrome, in secret and released the beta version for Windows on September 2, 2008. With Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Opera and Netscape to choose from, surely everyone's asking the same question: is there really a need for another Internet browser?
Obviously, Google's answer is yes. Much like the announcement of search-dud Cuil, Chrome is intended to stir up the marketplace as much as it is to be a better browser for web users. Google also sees the Internet browser as a universal portal to arguably the most important piece of technology we use in our everyday lives.
While Microsoft holds about 72% of the browser market, its dominance has been challenged as Firefox and Safari have have made steady gains over the last two years. In 2007, for instance, Internet Explorer's market share dipped below 80% and has declined modestly ever since.
Google's ultimate goal here is to blur the line between computer-based applications and Internet applications. Chrome offers simple shortcuts to make Gmail and other web-based applications accessible as an icon on your PC's desktop. It provides more security protection than IE8 and offers the same rendering engine as Apple's Safari.
Time will tell how successful its entry will be, but I have a feeling we'll soon be adding Chrome to the batch of browsers we use to cross-check and test our work.
|
