Search engine giant Google has released version 15 of its Chrome web browser, as well as redesigned Chrome Web store and tab pages. It is designed to bring speed and easier access to web browsing. In a Google blog post, product manager Shannon Guymon stated, “Today, changes in Chrome make it even easier to access your favorite apps and discover new favorites.”

In the latest release of  Chrome, the product manager indicated that new tab page is completely redesigned. “It’s more streamlined, so it’s easier to access and organize your apps in different sections on the page,” wrote Guymon.

Additionally, the Web Store also has a new look. According to the blogger, apps and extensions are now presented in a wall of images that’s updated every time you visit the store. “We hope this will help you quickly scan the store and find interesting things to try out,” Guymon wrote. “In addition, apps and extensions are easier to install—just hover over an image on the grid and click ‘Add to Chrome.’”

As per the description in the blog, getting additional information about an app or an extension is just a click away. Hence, wrote Guymon, “When you click on an app, extension or theme, you’ll see a panel featuring screenshots, videos and other relevant information neatly organized into separate tabs.” The store also includes a brand new reviews interface that links to the Google+ profile of each reviewer.

“To protect your privacy, we made sure to anonymize any reviews that you previously submitted,” Guymon said.

Along with the new look, a bunch of new apps have joined the store, according to the product manager. For instance, he is excited about My Robot Nation, an app that lets you design your own robot and bring it to life with a 3D printer. Also, the updated Web store offers many new games to play, including The Godfather: Five Families and Fieldrunners. While for those who are still looking for a Halloween costume, the Web store offers a brand-new eBay shopping app. 


Ashok Bindra is a veteran writer and editor with more than 25 years of editorial experience covering RF/wireless technologies, semiconductors and power electronics. To read more of his articles, please visit his columnist page.

Edited by Jennifer Russell