Google plays down expectations for Chrome browser

Google is keeping its head down. In an interview with the Tages-Anzeiger newspaper, Urs Hölzle, one of the vice presidents, massively downplayed expectations for the newly developed Chrome browser. "If we achieve a market share of one percent with Chrome, that would be a great success. For us, the focus is on better use of the Internet, i.e. greater stability and speed," said Hölzle. The company still lives by the motto "Do no evil", but is aware that it not only solves problems, but is itself part of the problem. "We are committed to developing more efficient technologies," Hölzle continued.
Two days ago, the Swiss data protection authority advised internet users to be well informed about the new Chrome browser. If too many applications such as e-mails, internet browsers or search engines are used from the same provider, it is questionable in terms of data protection, said Daniel Menna, spokesman for the Federal Data Protection Commissioner.
The German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) also advised caution. However, the office primarily criticized Google for advertising the completely new browser directly on its own homepage without warning of the dangers that a beta version entails.
It is questionable to offer the public a beta version without appropriate cautionary notes in such an "effective promotional positioning", BSI spokesperson Matthias Gärtner told the online platform Golem.de. After all, browsers are key components for sensitive applications, such as online banking or shopping on the Internet, Gärtner continued.