Google Chrome is one of the most popular web browsers in the world, but it faces a tough competition from Apple’s Safari on iOS devices. Google pays Apple billions of dollars every year to make its search engine the default option in iOS devices. This is called the traffic acquisition cost (TAC), and it has been climbing for years. Google wants to reduce this cost by persuading iOS users to switch to its Chrome browser, which has some features that Safari does not have.
One of these features is called Duet, and it is a redesign of the Chrome interface that moves the toolbar to the bottom of the screen, making it easier to reach with your thumb . The new feature was unveiled in November 2023, and it also includes a button to access Chrome’s data compression feature, which can reduce the amount of data you use by up to 60 percent, according to Google . This can be useful for users who have limited data plans or want to save battery life.
Another feature that Chrome has over Safari is the support for Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), which are web applications that can run like native apps on your device . You can install them from Chrome and access them from your home screen. They can also work offline and send push notifications. Google claims that PWAs can offer faster and smoother user experiences than traditional web pages or native apps.
However, Safari has some advantages over Chrome that may keep iOS users loyal to it. One of them is the faster JavaScript engine that Apple uses for Safari than it allows third-party browsers to use. JavaScript is a programming language that powers many web pages and apps, and having a faster engine means better performance and battery life. Safari also has some exclusive features, such as iCloud integration, Siri suggestions, and Handoff, which lets you continue browsing from one device to another.
In conclusion, Chrome may gain some market share on iOS devices with its new features, but it is unclear whether it will save Google from paying TAC to Apple. Safari still has a strong hold on the iOS market, and Apple is unlikely to give up its advantage easily. The choice between Chrome and Safari may ultimately depend on the personal preferences and needs of the users.
Relevant articles:
– Why Google Desperately Wants You to Use Chrome on Your iPhone, The Motley Fool, Sep 9, 2013
– Chrome on iOS just got a thumb-friendly upgrade – here’s how to get it, MSN, Nov 1, 2023
– Chrome on iOS unveils a much-anticipated feature. Here’s how to access it, ZDNet, Nov 1, 2023
– Bottom address bar comes to Google Chrome… for iOS, MSN, Nov 2, 2023