As with any shiny new object (especially from Google), Chrome has burst onto the scene with a flurry of feedback and is looking at a bright future.

Perhaps it is the comforting familiarity of the browser that increases its popularity. Unlike Google-esque rival search engine Cuil (which suffered an early launch with a ton of buzz and negative reaction earlier this summer) and social media savvy browser Flock, Chrome feels natural in its look and feel. The search engine and application experience that you are comfortable with using Google, now translates into your browser. What could be better?

Well, of course there are still a few kinks to work out.

Shiny Notes

• Chrome appears to run applications faster and with less errors and downtime than IE and even Firefox. The browser could even replace the desktop by handling not just text and graphics, but complex computer programs.
• Surfing speed, storage, memory, and overall user experience is good.

leeadkins: Memory usage in Chrome is looking good so far (try about:memory in the Omnibar when you have Chrome and IE/Firefox open)

• Simple, easy to use layout. Super search capabilities. Ability to add your own search engine (if, gasp, you don’t want to use Google). Tabs. People love tabs. And an overall friendly application.
• Competition is good. IE has 25% of the market while Mozilla Firefox only has 18% (it seems a lot larger doesn’t it?). Browser wars provide benefits to innovation and technology.

xtopher1974: Seems like a good idea. Glad to see the competition heating up and people rethinking the concept. Now, where’s my OS X version?

Dull Notes

• Chrome is only available for Windows XP and Vista right now. Mac and Linux users (generally the more technical people, no?) have to wait.

cdorobek: there isn’t a Mac version yet, so… Survey says: BZZZZZZ

extra_ketchup: As much as Google uses Linux, you’d think they would be better at supporting Linux. Google Chrome, cough cough, for Linux anyone?

• No application extensions available. How can web-savvy users integrate delicious and other daily plug-ins into Chrome?

swhitley: @NancyWhite Chrome doesn’t offer ‘plugins’ yet (what they refer to as extensions). They support standard plugins like Adobe Flash, etc.

• What about the mobile issue? Will Chrome be available on the iPhone? What about the Nokia N95?

Chrome may take a little getting used to, and some customization and upgrades will have to be made. But, a little test drive and some tweaks are to be expected with any shiny new toy.

What do you think? Do we need another browser to choose from? Do the benefits of Chrome outweigh those of Firefox, IE, and Safari? And, does the general public and average Internet user REALLY care about the impressive (or, unimpressive) capabilities of Chrome?

allanwhite: I haven’t seen this much talk about something (#Chrome) since an iPhone release. What’s so important about Chrome?