Google Chrome 142 restricts local network access and changes Sync on desktop

[harlan4096]

Google has released version 142 of its Chrome web browser for all supported operating systems and platforms. The official release announcement on the Chrome Releases blog makes no mention of security fixes, which could be a first.

No word yet about the recently announced change to Chrome's notification system.

Chrome Sync changes



The jump from version 141 to 142 introduces a few changes, including a simplified sign-in and sync experience on Chrome desktop according to Google.

What this means is that Chrome Sync won't be shown as a separate feature anymore on desktop systems. Instead, the feature is now tied more closely to the Google Account.

Users who sign-in to their account in Chrome can sync data, such as passwords or bookmarks, to their Google account.

A click on the profile icon displays the option to turn on syncing, if it is not enabled already. Chrome users may manage what they sync on this page in Chrome: chrome://settings/syncSetup/advanced

Just load the page in the address bar and pick the "Customize Sync" option to select what you want to sync and what not.

Google notes that the change does not affect the ability to sign in to Google websites and services on the Internet. This continues to be possible without signing in to Chrome. The feature is rolling out gradually.

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