May 22nd, 2009
First look: Google Chrome 2.0 - Fast but lacking features
Google has released Chrome 2.0. The speed-demon browser gets an additional kick of speed, a few more features, and a load of bug fixes.
First, let’s look at the speed side of things. Google’s Chrome browser was already fast, but the 2.0 update loads JavaScript-heavy web pages about 30% faster than version 1.0. Benchmark tests I’ve run seems to suggest that this claim holds true, and in fact when version 2.0 is compared against version 1.0 using Google’s V8 benchmark, the newer browser is twice as fast.
So, there’s plenty of speed available. But what about features?
Loading ...Well, for those who like an all-singing, all-dancing browser, Google’s Chrome as always been a poor choice because while the browser packed plenty of power, it was very basic. Chrome 2.0 is no different.
Here are some of the most significant newly added features to Chrome 2.0:
- Ability to delete thumbnails from new tab page
- Full page zoom
- Full screen mode (by pressing F11)
- Autofill for web forms
Nothing to write home about! Still, I use Chrome regularly because I like the speed and love the stability.
Then there are the bug fixes. More than 300 of them according to Google.
If you are a Chrome user, the browser will automatically update when run. If not, head over to the Google Chrome download page.
For Mac and Linux users, there’s still no Google Chrome for you.
Adrian is a technology journalist and author who has devoted over a decade to helping users get the most from technology. He also runs a popular blog called The PC Doctor. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations
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