Google Chrome
It was inevitable, Google has entered the web browser field.
The web browser is our window onto the web, our window onto Google. It’s simply a matter of self-preservation to have users using your own window, rather than have Microsoft close the shutters in the name of Security (for example).
After this there is only one more hurdle before Google is safe, Windows. As soons as users can access the web through the Google browser without needing to first open Chrome through their Windows OS (or indeed any OS), Microsoft will well worry.
Having tested the Chrome Beta, it looks fine at first glance. However, one glaring absence is the sidebar plugins that Firefox affords. I want sidebar access to my Delicious bookmarks for example (listening Google?). This will obviously come soon enough, or maybe I haven’t found it yet?
I am writing this article from Chrome itself. The interface is minimal and slick enough, with tabs and all the usually functions (and developer functions). In addition they have the Incognito function to hide surfing traces. This release has been strategically timed to follow IE8’s debut…
Google is edging it’s way into Microsofts bed, and taking all the covers. Not sure if they will nudge Firefox out too as that browser has a hard core following (and is a fantastic browser). Safari is also sneaking up in the browser wars using eerily similar strong-arm tactics that Microsoft use.
The browser market is looking competitive as Apple is also pushing Safari (and people are moving to MAC platform in droves). Firefox also has a fanatical following and IE has it’s obvious delivery advantages.
I have a sneaking feeling that Google Labs has an OS on the front burner which will be bundled with an ultra-lightweight “internet” PC served up by the likes of Asus and Acer (and now Dell?). That will be Windows out of the way. Then it seems there is only one more obstacle… free, lightweight Google PCs anyone?
Business Accounting Web Apps
If you are small business or professional and are also pretty hopeless at keeping track of your finances, contracts, invoices etc. check out this list of top Web2 Accounting and Business Applications compiled by Mashable.
ScribeFire
Scribefire is a fantastic extension for Firefox that allows you to quickly and simply add blog entries. It is effectively your blog tools stuffed directly into firefox.
I am posting this blog entry through Scribefire as i write. Seems I have a problem uploading images at the moment, but may be doing something wrong. It seems quite complete, I’ll have to report back later when i have done some thorough checking.
If anyone else has used it, leave a comment for us below. To try it yourself click here.
I took a grab of their new QuickAds system for ‘monetizing’ (hateful word - great concept) your blog. Why don’t people make it easy to grab their logos?
Dolphin Community Site
I’ve just stumbled on Dolphin community software by Boonex. It seems like a pretty complete package for building web2 community websites, including videos, profiles, music and all the regular Web2 essentials. I’ll be looking into this in more depth at some point in the future. If anyone has any experience of this software, leave a comment.
For more information go to www.boonex.com.
Pando
Pando.com is a new file sharing tool with the Web2 feel. It needs to be downloaded and installed, be careful however, as they also offer you to install Ask.com toolbar, a shopping program etc. However their intentions aren’t evil. Still, this could well be removed if they really wish this software to be used professionally. As soon as my clients stop sending files with it, I will uninstall it. There are web drop-boxes available which offer the same service without the need to clog up my hard drive.
It also has extended functionality and proposes web publishing and media streaming.
If you are interested, check it out at www.pando.com
Drupal 6
For all fans of this fantastic CMS system there is great news. Drupal 6 is now available.
Drupal is a full-featured CMS system for building website backends. A series of plug-ins allows it to be extended to cover practically any website requirements from simple blog sites, to complex online shops.
Great work guys!
Take a look at drupal.org.
Ning
Ning is a great online application for quickly setting up your own Social networking website. All the popular functions of any social web site are already there, videos, profiles, forums etc. Ning makes setting up a social network simple, and the software is constantly being updated so you are sure to always have access to the latest social facilities.
Check it out at www.ning.com
Madgex Job Board Software
I’ve recently discovered this excellent job board package software, as used by the Guardian.co.uk.
It’s a complete job board package, complete and increasingly popular.
For more information visit: http://www.madgex.com
Mint
I’ve recently stumbled upon Mint, a fantastic idea, and gorgeous looking, financial planning website that automatically connects to your online accounts and helps you analyse your spending. Not only that, it also advises you where you can save and offers various discounts etc.
Unfortunately for us Europeans the connectivity seems to be only available in the States so far.
I am therefore sending out a call to all investors and entrepreneurs with cash (are you out there?) to get moving on this idea and develop a version for Europe. Or even for Mint to open an office here, we are all waiting to use this excellent service. The possibilities that this offers are endless.
I also humbly offer my services as interactive designer to any interested parties looking to setup the equivalent here. Let’s get minted!
Wakoopa
If you are looking for popular software from Firefox to Photoshop check out Wakoopa. Sort software, ready for download, by category, popularity etc. and share your opinion on it with others.
A useful function of Wakoopa is that it tracks what software you use on your system, then it can advise you about updates and information relevant to it.
In their own words?
“If you still don’t know what anti-virus program to use, or what games to play, then just look in our database. We know what the cool kids use! Browse by tag or category, it’s all there.”