Google Chrome – The Other Web Browser

This blog post is an outcry of some sorts to Google.  It’s about my mixed feelings regarding Google Chrome. I think Google Chrome is a great browser once you really start using it. At first glance, it seemed a bit bizarre compared to other browsers as far as appearance but the more I used it, the more I wished I could make it my default web browser.

I downloaded the new browser when it first came out because I was curious what kind of a browser the search engine giant would produce. Google’s search engine algorithm sets the standard when it comes to search and therefore really directs how search engine marketers craft their processes. Other products like Gmail, Google Docs, and Google Voice have turned out to be great products that really benefit users. I was optimistic that Google Chrome would be another addition that would deliver.

This browser works like any traditional browser, but the feel is different. After using the browser for a couple months, and using it more consistently, I realized I preferred to use Google Chrome more than any other browsers including Explorer and Firefox. I tend to like having choices, even when it comes to web browsers so I switch between Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer (IE), and Google Chrome (in that order). Mozilla Firefox has tons of great add-ons, however, Chrome is the only browser that allows visual customization, and it lets you search the internet with privacy features such as an incognito window that does not record your browsing history.  I download lots of documents from the web throughout the day and Chrome displays them clearly; saving them is easy too. I also like the search functionality from the address bar. Firefox offers this, as well but Chrome brings up keywords and popular websites similar to how their search engine fields work on their home page.

The problem with Chrome is that it is still not viewed as a “real” web browser. People look at my screen and are always curious to know what browser I’m using. When I tell them, they either dismiss it or they laugh. Market share is dominated by IE and Firefox therefore many add-on developers have not provided the useful add-ons that are available on these browsers. For me, SEO Quake and Firebug are important add-ons that web designers and search engine optimizers use on a daily basis. There are also no social media add-ons, like Delicious and Stumble Upon, which could make content syndication a very efficient process.

I would love to have Chrome as my default browser, so I will wait patiently to see what developments the browser will have in the future. For now, Google might have their hands full with the release of Google Wave; however, there is promising news with a new feature added for bookmark synching across multiple computers. I think there is great potential for Chrome because if you are logged into a Gmail account, it’s great to have a browser that is connected to your documents and your mail. It’s definitely a strong plus for Google Chrome.

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2. Google Chrome is Now Available for Mac
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5. Yahoo and Bing Teaming up Against Google