Google is now rolling out Version 66 of its popular Chrome browser. The new version for the Mac now by default mutes autoplaying content. Mac and iOS versions include the ability to export passwords, new developer features, and security improvements.
Mute autoplay was originally slated for Chrome 64, which introduced autoplay settings on a per-site basis, but the function got pushed back for unspecified reasons. However, Chrome 66 now rolls out the default behavior for all users, and feeds into Google’s wider intention to make the media playback experience more consistent when users navigate the web.
Going forward, web-hosted media can only automatically play if it has no audio, if the user interacted with the page during a previous browsing session, or if the user frequently plays media on the site. Similarly on mobile, media can only autoplay if the site was added to the Home Screen by the user.
The passwords export option was previously hidden deep in Chrome’s menus, but version 66 adds the option to the user settings screen.
Version 66 of Google’s browser depreciates Symantec-issued security certificates, as the company has failed to comply with industry security standards.
The new browser version also includes a site isolation feature that offers additional protection from the Spectre CPU vulnerability. The new feature forces websites to run as separate processes, and blocks them from receiving certain types of sensitive data.
Chrome 66 for Mac is now available as a free download directly from Google.
Google Chrome for iOS is available as a free download for iOS devices from the App Store. [GET IT HERE]
