How Google’s New Feature Convinced Me to Customize Chrome
For over a decade, Google Chrome has been my go-to browser, and despite the occasional contenders, Google always manages to keep me hooked with its continuous updates and bug fixes. Just this week, Google rolled out a new feature that has once again solidified my loyalty to Chrome: enhanced customization options.
In their recent blog post, Google unveiled a new customization feature that arrives with the latest Chrome version. If you’re using Chrome 113, simply open a new tab and spot the shiny “Customize Chrome” button in the bottom-right corner of your screen. Give it a click, and voila! A side panel bursts open, presenting you with a plethora of customization possibilities.
The highlight of this side panel is the ability to change your browser’s theme. Having stuck with the Classic Chrome theme for as long as I can remember, I decided to explore the other options Google had in store. I was pleasantly surprised by the diverse range of themes available, featuring vibrant cityscapes, serene seascapes, empowering collections by LGBTQ artists, and even a recently-added collection showcasing talented AAPI artists.
After some contemplation, I settled on the theme of the landscape and opted to have it refreshed daily. This way, every time I launch Chrome to begin my work, I’m greeted by a fresh and captivating image.
Furthermore, the side panel grants you the freedom to display or hide shortcuts and cards. Personally, I find it convenient to have quick access to my frequently visited sites. However, if you prefer a cleaner and more minimalist New Tab page, you can easily turn off the shortcuts and cards.
Once again, Google has impressed me with its commitment to enhancing user experience. With the new customization options, Chrome feels even more personalized and engaging. Kudos to the Chrome team for continually raising the bar! #ChromeLoyalist #CustomizationDelight
Keeping your Chrome browser up to date ensures that you have access to the latest features, security patches, and bug fixes. Here’s a simple guide on how to update your Chrome browser:
- Open Chrome: Launch your Chrome browser by clicking on its icon in the taskbar or by searching for “Chrome” in the Start menu.
2. Access Settings: In the top-right corner of the browser window, you’ll find an icon with three vertical dots. Click on it to open a drop-down menu, and then select “Settings” from the list. Alternatively, you can type “chrome://settings/” in the address bar and hit Enter.
3. Go to About Chrome: In the Settings tab, scroll down until you see the “About Chrome” option. Click on it.
4. Check your Chrome version: The About Chrome page will automatically open, and Chrome will start checking for updates. It will display the current version of Chrome you have installed. If there are pending updates, they will be downloaded and installed automatically.
5. Update Chrome: If an update is available, you will see a message indicating that Chrome is downloading the update. Once the download is complete, you will see a “Relaunch” button. Click on it to finish updating Chrome.
6. Relaunch Chrome: After clicking the Relaunch button, Chrome will close and reopen with the latest version installed. Make sure to save any important work before proceeding.
7. Verify the update: Once Chrome relaunches, repeat steps 2 and 3 to go back to the About Chrome page. Check the version number to confirm that you are now running the latest version.
That’s it! You have successfully updated your Chrome browser to the latest version. It’s a good practice to periodically check for updates to ensure you’re benefiting from the latest improvements and security enhancements.
