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.
Open Source Messaging
Fancy serving your own enterprise instant messaging? Jabber is the solution.
Open source instant messaging software for your business.
Check out www.jabber.org.
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
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.”
Magento: openSource eCommerce
Magento is exactly what web designers have been waiting for. A sleek, well-built, out-of-the-box eCommerce solution which we can skin and supply.
We will be investigating this product in more depth and you can soon expect to see this product on our shelves.
Magento in their own (less than 50) words :”Magento is a feature-rich, professional open-source eCommerce solution offering merchants complete flexibility and control over the look, content, and functionality of their online store.” A designer´s dream!