The application only supports Ice Cream Sandwich devices

Feb 7, 2012 18:20 GMT  ·  By

Officially launched in 2008 Google’s Chrome web browser is now available for Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich users. The search-giant has just announced the availability of Chrome for Android Beta in the Android Market.

Those who use Chrome as their default web browser will be thrilled by Google’s announcement, as the developer promises to deliver an immersive experience on the Android platform as well.

As we already mentioned, Google only made this beta version available to all those Android fans who could afford to purchase an Ice Cream Sandwich smartphone or tablet.

Chrome for Android Beta is built on the same concept as the desktop version, speed and simplicity. However, the developers added seamless sign-in and sync in order for users to be able to personalize their web browsing experience depending on which devices they use while on the move.

Furthermore, Google praises Chrome’s speed and confirms that “you can search, navigate and browse fast—Chrome fast.”

It is also worth mentioning that when searching, the first search results place on top will be loaded in the background as users are typing so they will think the pages appear instantly. In addition, both search and navigation actions can be done from the Chrome omnibox.

Design-wise, Google says that Chrome for Android has been especially designed for mobile devices, so there’s nothing ported from desktop versions.

Tabs have been reintegrated so they can fit on any screen no matter its size. The mobile browser features an unlimited number of tabs, so users can flip or swipe between them using intuitive gestures.

An important feature that’s been integrated is called Link Preview and allows users to select a certain link from a list much easier than any other browser. It automatically zooms in on links in order to make selecting the correct link easier.

Chrome for Android Beta is now available as a free download in the Android Market and is fully compatible with all devices running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and up.

Some of the highlights of the application include:

- Browse fast with accelerated page loading, scrolling, and zooming; - Search and navigate directly from the omnibox; - Open and switch between unlimited tabs in an easy-to-view stack; - Sign in to Chrome to sync your bookmarks and view tabs you have open on your computer;  - Send pages from desktop Chrome to your smartphone or tablet with one click and read them on the go, even if you’re offline; - Browse privately in Incognito mode.