Well, Google did it again. They’ve created a web browser called Chrome. Currently Chrome is available for download for Windows XP and Windows Vista users. Versions for Mac and Linux are coming soon.

So, what’s the big deal about Chrome? Well, I’m sure Microsoft is shaking in its boots worrying that Chrome will make Internet Explorer obsolete. Will that happen? I doubt it. Also, faithful users of Mozilla’s Firefox may decide to switch to Chrome if Google offers similar plug-ins and downloads. But what really makes Chrome special? According to Google’s press announcement yesterday, Chrome’s features include:

• Clean design and simple to use
  
• Each tab runs independently making Chrome faster and more responsive
• Enhanced security features
• “Fill in the blank” feature remembers where you’ve visited
• Thumbnails of your top sites
  
• Shortcuts to downloaded files appear at the bottom of the page – no more searching for your downloads in files (personally happy about this one)
• Drag and drop downloaded files to location of choice (again, happy about this one)
• Instant bookmarks, and more…
  
• Completely open-source and not tied to Google search or any other Google application

During the press conference, Google stressed that Chrome is completely open-source and is not related to Google Search or any other Google application. Google also said they will continue to work closely with Mozilla and also commended Mozilla for “re-igniting browser technology advancements.”

What does the future hold for Chrome? We’ll soon find out. I’m sure news of Chrome will not die off too soon.

As for me, I’ll give Chrome a shot. But it will take a lot to convince me to switch completley from Firefox.