If you use Google Chrome, which is undeniably the most widely used web browser globally, chances are you’ll soon notice a fresh look. This change will become apparent when you open your browser in the upcoming weeks.
In honor of Chrome’s 15th anniversary, Google is treating it to a stylish update. In a blog post today, the company unveiled its plans to revamp the appearance of the desktop version of this beloved browser. They will draw inspiration from the Material You design language.
Chrome Turns 15 with a Bang – Discover Its Sleek Transformation and Exciting Upgrades
The changes made by Google this month may not be the most significant ones we’ve witnessed. However, they will significantly alter the look and feel of Chrome.
The veteran browser receives a visual upgrade to align with Google’s Material You design, introduced alongside Android 12 in 2021. It will also include a new Google Search side panel, an overhauled web store, and enhanced security measures to provide better protection from phishing attacks.
So, let’s dive into all the new features we’re receiving to commemorate Chrome’s 15th birthday.
Google Chrome with Material You
This latest redesign comes on the heels of the previous one, which introduced the Google Material Theme five years ago. The overall layout remains consistent, but you’ll notice subtle changes like rounded corners. Additionally, there’s a slightly increased height in the top section of the browser, encompassing tabs, bookmark bars, and the Omnibox.
The icons have undergone a ‘refresh’ to enhance legibility, with notable changes like the placement of the downward chevron in buttons. Additionally, icons are now featured in the three-dot overflow menu to simplify access to important settings. Menu reorganization has taken place, and a distinct sub-menu for your signed-in Google Account has been introduced, prominently positioned for easy access.
In response to the widespread adoption of HTTPS, the lock icon has been removed from the address bar. Instead, a new icon has been introduced for accessing site options. Additionally, the floating menus have received a redesign, now sporting pill-shaped switches and rounded corners.
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Revamped Chrome Web Store
With this update, Google is also refreshing and renovating the Chrome Web Store, bringing the storefront with the Material You design language. Additionally, they are introducing new categories of extensions for users to explore.
Google is introducing a Material You redesign for the Chrome Web Store, complete with personalized recommendations and fresh categories such as AI-driven extensions and Editors’ Picks.
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New Search Side Panel
The Chrome persistent side panel is expanding its capabilities, now including the “All Bookmarks” feature. Additionally, it introduces a “Search this page with Google” functionality that opens a panel for highlighting images and generating related queries.
Color takes on a prominent role in this Material You redesign, bringing in new palettes that harmonize seamlessly with your toolbar and tabs. To fully appreciate this, it’s recommended to use a light theme. You can experiment with these color schemes by navigating to the New Tab Page and clicking on “Customize Chrome” in the bottom-right corner.
Read Also: How to Manage Your Side Search Panel in Google Chrome
Upgraded Safe Browsing
In terms of security, Safety Check now extends its coverage to include extensions. Additionally, Google Safe Browsing has been enhanced to operate in real-time, continuously comparing websites to a constantly updated list of known malicious URLs. Previously, the browser would refresh its local list every 30-60 minutes, but with the evolution of online threats, where 60% of phishing domains exist for less than 10 minutes, real-time protection is essential.
Rather than periodic updates, Chrome will now actively scan every website you visit against Google’s rapidly updated list of malicious sites. Additionally, Chrome will soon display alerts when it determines that an installed extension can endanger your surfing experience.
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Signing-Off
Users can access the new Chrome without any action required on their part. All they need to do is wait for the update to be automatically applied.
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