Google Chrome has released an update with a new look for all users

Chrome has received a major update as it celebrates its 15th anniversary. This Thursday (7) Google has launched a visual overhaul with Material You, a new extensions store and a side column that will speed up web searches.

The main new feature is the new look of Chrome on desktop. The changes are based on the Material You design language, a standard introduced with Android 12.

However, Google requires an interface with more rounded corners, color-highlighted buttons, and more dynamic theme customization (here, specific to each browser profile).

There will also be other new features in the skin, such as a more intuitive extensions menu and faster access to native add-ons like Google Translate and Password Manager.

New Chrome Web Store

The Chrome Web Store extension store also made a deal with Material You. Not only is the site now full of items with rounded corners, but it has also made it easier to search for new plugins.

There are new categories on the platform that increase the potential for plugin discovery, such as artificial intelligence (AI)-powered extensions and Editors’ Choice. Currently the store is available in public preview and can be accessed from Chromium-based browsers (e.g. Edge, Opera and Vivaldi).

Quick searches in Chrome

Following in the footsteps of Microsoft Edge, Chrome now offers integration with Google in a side column. The new feature allows you to use the search engine without needing an additional tab.

This section becomes available when you are on a web page and need to find more options on it. Clicking “Search this page on Google” opens a side column with additional information about the content on the screen.

Quick insights with AI and online protection

The same side column also provides quick access to Google’s generative AI. The Search Generative Experience (SGE) tool can provide summaries of an article and list key points with one click. For now, this functionality is exclusive to Chrome users residing in the United States.

Google Chrome already includes tools to prevent you from accessing dangerous websites, but criminals are inventing increasingly effective methods to bypass local mechanisms.

By increasing defenses Chrome has advanced mechanisms to detect more threat variations. According to the company, the weld should now be 25% better.

Phased distribution

Google didn’t elaborate on the availability of the new features, but said they have been rolled out since Thursday’s announcement. Click on the menu in the upper right corner and check if there are packages available for download. Help > About Chrome.