The latest Chrome update is here, and it’s packed with exciting new features and enhancements. Google Chrome is introducing three new generative AI features that will be rolled out in the U.S. starting with Chrome (M121) for Macs and Windows PCs [1]. These features will be accessible through the “Experimental AI” page in the Chrome settings, although they are currently not available for enterprise and educational accounts [1].
The update includes a range of improvements across various platforms, including Chrome Dev for Desktop and Android, Chrome Beta for Android and Desktop, and ChromeOS/ChromeOS Flex [2] [3]. With this update, users can expect enhanced security fixes, new extensions, and a smoother browsing experience on their Chromebooks and other devices [2] [3]. Whether you’re eager to explore the latest Chrome download or curious about the newest Google updates, this comprehensive review will delve into the key aspects of the 2024 Google Chrome update.
The New Color Scheme and Customization Options
Google Chrome’s latest desktop update introduces a range of customization features that allow users to personalize their browser’s appearance [4]. The update enables users to experiment with various color schemes, themes, and settings in real-time through a side panel accessible by clicking the ‘Customize Chrome’ icon in a new tab [4]. Users can select from a diverse collection of unique images and backgrounds across categories such as landscapes and seascapes, with the option to set up a rotating background by activating the ‘Refresh daily’ toggle [4].
The new design, based on Material You, emphasizes legibility, offers new color palettes, and ensures better integration with operating systems [5]. Users can customize their browser’s theme color by:
- Opening a new tab page and clicking on the ‘Customize Chrome’ button [6].
- Choosing a color theme from the available options or using the eyedropper icon to select a custom color [6].
- Setting a solid color for Chrome’s New Tab page [7].
Additionally, a hidden flag in Chrome allows users to set the browser’s theme color to one extracted from the background image selected within the New Tab page [7].
Google has commissioned artist collections from various communities, including Asian & Pacific Islander, LGBTQ+, Latino, Black, and Native American artists, with plans to add more collections throughout the year [4]. Each profile can have a distinct background and color to differentiate between them, and users can mix and match colors with their chosen theme [4]. The active browser window now features a light blue color on top where all the tabs are located [8]. Users can customize their shortcuts by deciding whether to turn the shortcuts toggle on and selecting the type of shortcuts they prefer [8].
Enhanced Bookmark Access
The latest Chrome update introduces a new side panel icon in the top right corner, providing users with quick access to their bookmarks [8] [18]. However, Google has changed the flow of adding bookmarks in its Chrome web browser [10]. When users click on the star icon to add a bookmark, the new dialog displays no editing options directly; instead, it lists the bookmarks folder the bookmark was added to, along with “Done” and “Edit” buttons, and a prompt to turn on sync [10].
To customize the name and folder of the new bookmark, users need to click on the “Edit” button [10]. The URL of the bookmark can only be changed when the bookmarks folder is selected in the add bookmark dialog or by opening the Bookmarks management interface [10]. These changes are comparable to the 2017 update when Google switched the “Done” and “Remove” buttons in the add bookmark window [10]. While clicking on the star icon still adds a bookmark, any customization now requires at least one additional click [10], and editing the URL is only available in some editing menus, not others [10].
Users can display the bookmarks bar by following these steps [11]:
- Click on the three dots next to their profile picture
- Hover over “Bookmarks” and “Lists”
- Select “Show bookmarks bar”
After enabling the bookmarks bar, users can add new bookmarks by visiting a website, clicking on the star icon in the URL bar, and then clicking “Done” [11]. The new bookmark will appear in the bookmarks bar [11]. To hide the bookmarks bar, users can hover over it, right-click, and then select “Show bookmarks bar” to disable it [11].
To access all saved websites, users can:
- Click on the three dots located in the top right corner
- Navigate to “Bookmarks” and then “Lists”
- Select “Show all bookmarks” [12]
Users can categorize their bookmarks using folders for better organization [12]. The “Bookmarks bar” folder contains all the bookmarks saved in the bookmarks bar [12]. For quick access to the bookmark manager, users can press “Control Shift and 0” simultaneously [12], where they can view the bookmarks bar and other bookmarks [12].
Updates to The Chrome Menu
The latest Chrome update introduces a more comprehensive menu for faster access to extensions, Google Translate, Google Password Manager, and more [5]. By clicking the three-dot menu icon in the top right corner, users can now easily access their Chrome profile, including the option to add or manage profiles [8].
The Chrome Web Store has also been redesigned to make it easier for users to discover helpful extensions [5]. The store now features new extension categories and personalized recommendations, making it more convenient for users to find the extensions they need [5]. Additionally, Safety Check has been expanded to extensions, helping identify extensions in the store that were recently unpublished, in violation of policies, or potentially malicious [5].
Chrome is also set to release new features aimed at providing more helpful suggestions for online shopping [13]. These features include:
- Search suggestions based on what others are looking for [13]
- More images displayed for broader shopping categories and products, such as “bohemian table” [13]
- Improved on-device capabilities, allowing these features to be available even with a poor internet connection [13]
Instant Permissions Access with Tune Icon
The Tune icon in the address bar allows users to quickly see if their connection is secure and view what permissions they’ve granted that site [8]. With the Google Chrome 2024 Update, users can now set permissions for a website without changing their default settings [14] [15]. When a site asks permission to use features like camera, __cpLocation, and microphone, users have the following options:
- Allow this time: The site will be able to use the requested feature only during the current visit [15].
- Allow on every visit: The site will be able to use the requested feature during the current visit as well as during future visits [15].
- Don’t allow: The site can’t use the requested feature [15].
Users can also grant one-time permissions for specific features and easily manage site permissions, allowing or denying access to certain features [15]. The update provides users with the ability to change settings for all sites, including:
- Third-party cookies
- Images
- JavaScript
- Protocol handlers
- Pop-ups and redirects
- Intrusive ads
- Location
- Notifications
- Camera and microphone
- Unsandboxed plugin access
- Automatic downloads
- MIDI devices
- Bluetooth devices
- Background sync
- Fonts
- Zoom levels
- PDF documents
- Protected content
- Motion sensors
- Serial ports
- File editing
- Clipboard
- Payment handlers
- Augmented reality
- Virtual reality
- Embedded content
- Insecure content
- Your device use
- Sounds
- HID devices
- USB devices
- Third-party sign-in
- On-device site data [15]
Google Chrome is introducing a new behavior to allow users to optionally grant permanent access to their files and folders, eliminating the need for repeated permissions [16]. The new three-way permission prompt offers users the options to allow access for the current visit, allow on every visit (permanent access), or don’t allow [16]. A new section in site settings allows users to manage app access to files and folders, with the ability to revoke access on a per-item basis [16]. This highly requested feature for the File System Access API is now available with the Google Chrome 2024 update [16] [17].
Innovations in Online Shopping Features
The latest Chrome update introduces a range of innovative features designed to enhance the online shopping experience for users. Chrome now automatically provides shopping insights, including price history and price tracking, without the need for third-party apps [8]. Users can easily save products they’re interested in using the new Shopping list folder, which tracks the price of each saved item [8]. Additionally, Chrome can now automatically search for discount codes on behalf of users, streamlining the process of finding the best deals [8].
Google is also introducing Circle to Search, a feature that allows users to select images, text, or videos on their Android phone screen and search for related information without switching apps [18]. The AI-powered multisearch experience enables users to point their camera, upload a photo or screenshot, and ask a question using the Google app, providing AI-powered insights beyond visual matches [18].
Looking ahead, Google Shopping is expected to undergo significant enhancements in 2024, offering a more personalized and interactive user experience [19]. Some of the anticipated features include:
- Anticipating user needs and remembering preferences [19]
- Providing tailored product feeds [19]
- Implementing new technologies like blockchain and voice search integration for secure transactions and intuitive shopping [19]
- Incorporating augmented reality (AR) for virtual try-ons and visual search capabilities [19]
- Highlighting eco-friendly products and brands that align with sustainable practices [19]
- Utilizing AI and machine learning to introduce smart shopping assistants that offer real-time suggestions, compare prices, and negotiate deals [19]
- Forging partnerships with retailers, brands, and tech companies to offer exclusive deals and unique shopping experiences [19]
- Integrating with social media platforms to enable users to share and purchase products directly from social feeds [19]
Conclusion
The 2024 Google Chrome update introduces a wealth of new features and enhancements that cater to the evolving needs of users. From personalized customization options and improved bookmark management to innovative online shopping features and AI-powered multisearch capabilities, this update aims to revolutionize the browsing experience. As Chrome continues to prioritize user privacy and security while integrating cutting-edge technologies, it sets the stage for a more intuitive, efficient, and enjoyable online journey.
Looking towards the future, the 2024 update lays the groundwork for even more exciting developments in the realm of online shopping and beyond. As Google Shopping embraces personalization, sustainability, and immersive technologies, users can anticipate a shopping experience that is tailored to their preferences, aligned with their values, and enhanced by the power of AI and AR. With these advancements on the horizon, Google Chrome is poised to redefine the way we browse, shop, and interact with the digital world.
FAQs
Q: What is the procedure to update Google Chrome to the 2024 version?
A: To update to Chrome 2024, navigate to your Chrome browser’s Settings menu, proceed to About Chrome, and the application will automatically search for the update. Once the update is fetched, you will be prompted to relaunch Chrome to implement the new changes. It’s important to note that the Android version of Chrome will include the same security updates as the desktop version.
Q: Is it necessary to update Google Chrome regularly?
A: Yes, it is essential to update Google Chrome to ensure that you have the most recent security protections. Chrome is designed to update automatically when a new version is available for your device. Following an update, you might notice some changes in the appearance of your browser.
Q: What is the reason behind Google’s decision to phase out third-party cookies?
A: Google is eliminating third-party cookies because they can collect vast amounts of personal data from website users without their explicit consent or knowledge. This data is often shared, exchanged, and sold within the digital advertising industry, raising privacy concerns.
Q: How can I stop future updates of Google Chrome?
A: To prevent future updates of Google Chrome on Windows, access Google Update Applications in your Google settings. Enable the Update policy override default, and under the Options, choose to Disable updates. This will stop automatic updates for Google Chrome.