Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) moved Chrome version 16 out of beta and into the stable channel Dec. 13, offering 15 bug fixes and adding the ability to sync the browser for multiple user accounts on the same Chrome installation.
As far as paid flaw discoveries goes, Chrome 16 was a lightweight. Google only paid out $6,500 for security bug discoveries, compared with $26,511 for 18 security flaw finds paid out for Chrome 15.
For the latest round of flaw discoveries, Google paid $1,000 apiece for high-risk URL bar spoofing; use-after-free bugs in SVG filters and range handling; a buffer overflow in PDF font handling; an out-of-bounds write in the V8 JavaScript engine; and an out-of-bounds read in PDF cross references.
The biggest advancement for Chrome 16 is the extension of the browser’s sync tool to allow more than one user to sign into Chrome on the same computer, port all of their bookmarks, extensions and applications to any computer, and make changes to those tools as they see fit.
This will accomplish two things. One, it will save users of a shared computer from having to download and install software and type in passwords repeatedly.
Two, it will prevent bookmarks, apps and extensions from getting mixed up with everyone else’s and ensure the right Chrome content syncs to the right devices.
Finally, Google upgraded its Chrome Web Store again. Chrome app shoppers can now filter app title by the most popular and highest-rated apps. Users may also find new programs via the Related tab, and check out winter holidays and NewYear app genres.
Chrome is on a roll, having jumped to 18 percent market share through November, according to Net Applications.
Google Chromebooks, on the other hand, appear to be suffering from some sluggish sales as consumers seem to be more interested in tablet computers. Samsung and Acer have each discounted their Chromebook models to pull in more holiday sales this year.