Whether you're browsing on your desktop or your mobile device, chances are you've used Google Chrome web browser at some point. Google Chrome held the title of the most-used web browser on both desktops and mobile devices for the last decade.
According to Statcounter, the Google Chrome mobile browser holds 63.14% market share worldwide. This means at least that over 3 billion mobile device users use Google Chrome.
Source: StatCounter Global Stats - Browser Market Share
So no arguments here. Google Chrome is the most popular browser, but not for iPhone users. Since iOS has 25.78% of the global mobile operating system market share, 16.44% of all iPhone users use Google Chrome mobile browser on iOS.
Don't get me wrong, Chrome has had its fair share of criticism as well, particularly about being a "resource hog." In September, it even received a new look called "Material You" with the release of Chrome version 117.
Chanuka Nadun Perera
The last update on October 25, Chrome 119, will be the last update of the Chrome browser for Android 7.0. scheduled for a stable release on December 6, Chrome 120 will no longer support Android Nougat. Yes, it's time to say goodbye to Android 7.0.
When Android Nougat (Android 7.0) was released in 2016 alongside the original Google Pixel, in my opinion, it was a turning point for Google. In 2023, Android 13 is the most-used Android operating system, installed on 22.4% of all devices.
But back in 2016, Android 7.0 was a very Good and balanced OS. That's why even in 2023, today, 2.6% of Android users are still holding on to their Nougat devices.
Meanwhile, Google has revealed a new feature for Chrome users on iOS, allowing them to relocate the address bar from the top to the bottom of their screen. In this fresh layout, the URL bar goes down to the bottom of the screen.
Chanuka Nadun Perera
The bottom toolbar now contains various navigation options, including back and forward buttons. This New Tab function offers a long-press menu with options like Lens, Incognito, and voice search, the Tab Switcher, and a three-dot menu.
The overflow menu, which unfolds as a full bottom sheet, presents a different experience compared to the Android version, further enhancing the visual distinction between the two.
If you are still using Android Nougat (Android 7.0), will you be able to keep using Chrome? The simple answer would be yes; you can keep using Chrome after December 6. The Chrome 119 will support and keep the support till Google decides to remove the device permanently.
But my friend, if you are still using a device with an almost decade-old OS, unfortunately, It's time to switch devices.
