Google has launched Chrome 67 on Mac, Windows, Linux, and Android devices packed with exciting new features. The release features two powerful APIs, password-free logins, PWA support on desktops and more. Let’s have a look at the features in detailed.
Progressive web apps now supported on Desktops
Chrome 67 now supports Desktop based progressive web apps. They run the same way as other apps, in an app window, without an address bar or tabs. Service workers run the PWA to ensure they are engaging, fast, and smooth.
As a developer, there are only certain breakpoints to consider while running your PWA in chrome. Essentially the process of creating it remains the same.
If your app meets the standard PWA criteria, Chrome will fire the beforeinstallprompt event, However, it won’t automatically prompt the user. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Save the event. Then, add some UI—like an install app button—to the app to tell the user your app can be installed
- As the user clicks the button, you need to call prompt on the saved event. Chrome will then show the prompt to the user
- If users click add, Chrome will add the PWA to their shelf and launcher
AR and VR support with WebXR Device API
Chrome 67 offers a special WebXR Device API, to create augmented reality and virtual reality experiences on desktops and mobile devices. It will be used to create immersive experiences across multiple AR/VR devices, sensors and head-mounted displays including Google Daydream View, Samsung Gear VR, and desktop-hosted headsets like Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows Mixed Reality Headsets. This API will be used to develop AR and VR games, 360-degree videos, and also be used for data visualization, home shopping, and displaying art.
Generic Sensor API for accelerometer support
Updating mobile experiences, Chrome 67 offers a new Generic Sensor API. Websites can access a mobile device’s accelerometer, gyroscope, orientation sensor, and motion sensor.
The API consists of a base Sensor interface with a set of sensor classes built on top. The base interface simplifies the implementation and specification process for the sensor classes. The goal of the Generic Sensor API is to promote consistency across sensor APIs, enable advanced use cases, and increase the pace at which new sensors can be exposed to the Web.
Password-free logins
Chrome 67 supports password-free logins based on the Web Authentication standard. These standards can be incorporated into browsers and allow additional ways for users to securely sign into most sites. These include biometric information such as fingerprint, retina, or facial recognition from either smartphone or a USB key.
Changes in dev tools
There are also a number of changes and updates in DevTools in Chrome 67. Some of these include:
- Users can now search across all network headers.
- There are new audits, desktop configuration options, and viewing traces.
- Incorporation of user Timing in the Performance tabs.
- JavaScript VM instances are now clearly listed in the Memory panel.
- The Network tab in the Sources panel has been renamed as the Page tab.
- Certificate transparency information is available in the Security panel.
- Site isolation features now appear in the Performance panel.
Check out the Google developer blog for a full list of updates. Chrome 67 can be updated by either using the browser’s built-in updater or downloading it directly from google.com/chrome.
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