Google Chrome for Mac
Since the release of Google Chrome for PC in December 2008, there has been much speculation as to the release of a Mac compatible version. This week the long awaited BETA form of Google Chrome for Mac was released, receiving a favourable reception.
Google Chrome promises users faster browsing, increased stability and convenience over its leading competitors.
Upon its original release Google Chrome was received very favourably, being praised for ‘rethinking the Web browser in clever and convenient ways’. Within a year of the release of Google Chrome for Windows, it became the 4th most popular internet brower, closely behind Safari, along with Firefox and Microsoft Internet Explorer.
The defining aspects that separate Google Chrome from other Web Browsers are:
Reliability
Google chrome has already been cited as arguably the most reliable Browser currently available. This is attributed to the ‘Multiprocess’ design of Google Chrome, which separates every aspect of each tab or window so they operate in isolation from one another. This means that any errors or faults in one tab won’t affect any of the other tabs. The same logic applies to java and plugins, as they still run secluded from one another.
Speed
Under testing, Google Chrome was found to be twice as fast as Firefox 3.0, arguably making it the fastest web browser available. Google Chrome’s speed is due to the previously mentioned ‘Multiprocess’ system, which ensures that one slow Web Page won’t affect others.
Streamlined Design
Perhaps the best feature of Google Chrome is its well thought-out and logical design, making it highly accessible to users of practically all I.T skills. The minimalist design focuses on ‘Blurring the line between what’s online and what’s inside your PC’, and aesthetically has more in common with a program, rather than a Web Browser. This approach gives more attention to the site your visiting, void of distracting logos or buttons.
Safety
Another benefit of the ‘Multiprocess’ system is the increased safety of keeping each web page and application in an independent environment. Every time a new tab is open it will be set up with its own memory, rendering process and desktop. Also, unlike many popular web browsers, Google chrome comes with strict rendering process restrictions built-in, making your Mac less vulnerable to viruses.
Usability
The feature of an ‘Omnibar’ is a perfect example of Google Chrome’s ease of use. The ‘Omnibar’ is used for both typing in URL’s and searches, whilst using automatic completion in regard to what you’ve visited. It will also give you the option of what search engine to use based on searches you’ve performed on frequently visited sites. Other features include a default home page, with your most frequently visited sites, a highly effective tab system to promote usability and private browsing option.
You can download the latest version of Google Chrome for Mac here:
http://www.google.com/chrome?platform=mac&hl=en
Article written by Sam Logan, Senior Web Designer at SJL Web Design
December 12th, 2009 at 8:48 pm
I’m loving google chrome. Since I’m a developer, the developer tools are almost a replacement for firefox’s firebug. With the addition of plugins on the PC side, and coming soon on the mac side, it will be even better.