Coronavirus Update: Google Pauses Future Chrome, Chrome OS Releases To Ensure Stability For Work-From-Home Professionals

Google has decided to pause any upcoming Chrome and Chrome OS releases in order to maintain stability for people depending on them. The coronavirus pandemic continues to spread leading to several companies urging their employees to work from home.

Google products are being used by several professionals as they do their jobs remotely. The tech giant has confirmed that it will release any security-related updates to Chrome 80.

“Due to adjusted work schedules at this time, we are pausing upcoming Chrome and Chrome OS releases,” a statement released the team on Google Chrome’s official blog.

“Our primary objectives are to ensure they continue to be stable, secure, and work reliably for anyone who depends on them. We’ll continue to prioritize any updates related to security, which will be included in Chrome 80.”

Chrome 81 is in the beta stage at the moment and with the recent coronavirus crisis, it is likely to take time before users get a stable version. However, it is a welcome move that Google will release security updates to current Chrome 80.

In March, there is a massive surge in work-from-home arrangements as professionals go into self-isolation to avoid any coronavirus transmission. Tech companies, like Apple, Amazon, and Google, have issued guidance to their employees regarding working from home if they can.

Meanwhile, Google has also stated that Android app developers should brace themselves for longer wait times before their apps are reviewed amid the reduction of in-office employees at its offices. The same is applicable for YouTube as it will rely on AI algorithms to check the content.

In the coming weeks, as more and more people opt to work remotely, the dependency on products like Chrome and Chrome OS will only increase. These platforms must be stable for a smoother workflow for professionals.

The coronavirus has killed 8,810 people across the world with 218,743 confirmed coronavirus cases as of March 19. Government and administrative bodies are taking necessary measures to contain the spread of coronavirus.