Google Chrome 123 Released: Security Updates and Google Update Adjustments for Windows Users

Today marks the release of the latest stable version of the Google Chrome web browser, version Google Chrome 123.0. This update encompasses significant features alongside a robust security overhaul aimed at enhancing user protection and overall browsing experience.

Let’s dive into the security updates first. Google has addressed 12 security vulnerabilities in this release. Of these, seven critical issues have been highlighted in their official announcement on the Chrome Releases website. Notably, the most severe vulnerabilities rated are classified as high-impact, albeit Google reports no current active exploits targeting these issues.

Chrome 123.0 has started rolling out and is set to install automatically on most non-managed systems. To expedite the update on a desktop, users can visit chrome://settings/help or navigate through the menu via Menu > Help > About Google Chrome. This process initiates the update check; once confirmed, any new updates are downloaded, requiring a restart of the browser to complete the installation.

As for Android users, the rollout timetable for the update will be contingent on Google unlocking it for specific devices, meaning there’s no direct method to hasten the update on Android platforms.

Unveiling New Features in Chrome 123.0

Google Chrome 123 introduces a myriad of exciting features, particularly significant for Windows users. A noteworthy alteration is the renaming and relocation of the Google Update executable:

Previously identified as GoogleUpdate.exe and located at C:\Program Files (x86)\Google\Update\GoogleUpdate.exe, it has now been rebranded to updater.exe, with a dynamic path of C:\Program Files (x86)\Google\GoogleUpdater\VERSION\updater.exe.

This modification could present challenges for users attempting to manage or restrict the updater’s automatic operations. If the update is not yet visible, users must wait for its eventual rollout.

Generative AI Capabilities

Building on innovations from Chrome 122, Google integrates generative AI features like Tab Organizer and Create Themes. While these features were initially restricted to adult users in the US and required manual activation, some users may discover that these functionalities are enabled by default with this new version.

Tab Organizer analyzes your open tabs and suggests logical groupings based on their content. However, it’s important to note that this AI feature processes data remotely, meaning Chrome will submit URLs and titles of open tabs to Google’s servers. If privacy is a concern, users are advised to group their tabs manually to avoid this submission.

Minor Enhancements Included in Chrome 123

The following list outlines additional improvements and modifications featured in this release. Remember, some changes will take a phased approach, becoming available to all users gradually:

Resume Tabs – The new tab interface introduces a feature that allows users to access tabs from other devices, contingent on Chrome Sync being activated. Additionally, Chrome for iOS introduces a shortcut leading to the last active tab within the past 24 hours.
Chrome Sync – Support has ended for Chrome 81 and older versions, necessitating an upgrade to a more recent version to maintain sync functionality.
Improved Password Re-use Detection – Previously applicable to corporate profiles only, the detection of password re-use extends to personal profiles, enhancing security for all users.
Safe Browsing Telemetry – Users with Enhanced Protection activated may experience increased telemetry data sent to Google, particularly when interacting with pages that prompt notification permissions.
Private Network Access Warnings – The private network access checks, designed to shield personal networks from harmful requests, will operate in warning mode until it transitions to protected mode in a future Chrome update (anticipated in Chrome 130).

These updates not only uplift user experience but also underscore Google’s commitment to enhanced browser security and functionality.

Your Turn: What are your thoughts on these updates? How do you feel about the introduction of generative AI in Chrome?

Additional Insights

1. What are the main security enhancements in Google Chrome 123?

Google Chrome 123 provides vital security patches against 12 identified vulnerabilities, including seven significant threats listed on their releases blog, emphasizing heightened security for everyday browsing activities.

2. How can I manually update to Chrome 123?

To manually check and speed up your Chrome 123 installation, go to chrome://settings/help or follow the path through Menu > Help > About Google Chrome. This will prompt Chrome to initiate an update check.

3. Are there any new features specifically aimed at Windows users?

Yes, Windows users will notice a shift in the Google Update executable’s name and path, which could affect user control over the updater’s functionality. Furthermore, improvements like enhanced password reuse detection benefit all users across profiles.

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