Google Chrome 97 is expected to be released later today. The new stable version of Google Chrome will be rolled out via the browser's automatic updating system starting today.
Chrome 97's release was delayed by weeks because of the Holiday period in many parts of the world.Google Chrome 96, the last major stable release in 2021, was released on November 16, 2021.
The new version of Google Chrome launches with a controversial Keyboard MAP API. The API could not be used previously by certain web experiences because it could not be used inside iframes. Apps such as Microsoft's Office web applications could not make use of the API to detect key presses on keyboard layouts. Keyboard layouts differ depending on the region or language. The change makes the functionality available to web applications that are inside iframes.
ADVERTISEMENTHere is the official explanation of why the feature has been implemented:
Mozilla, Apple, Brave and other browser developers voiced concerns. One key argument that the companies brought forth against the integration in their browsers was that sites could use the functionality for fingerprinting purposes.
Apple published a response on GitHub, stating:
ADVERTISEMENTBrave Software, maker of the Brave Browser, had this to say:
Mozilla finally added the Keyboard Map API to the list of harmful APIs that it won't implement in the Firefox web browser.
Google will implement the API in Chrome, but many other browsers, even those based on Chromium, won't implement it or will disable the API so that it can't be used by websites.
Interested users can check out the other features of Chrome 97 here.
Now You: what is your preferred browser right now?
ADVERTISEMENTSummaryArticle NameGoogle Chrome 97 introduces controversial keyboard APIDescriptionGoogle Chrome 97 is expected to be released later today. The new stable version of Google Chrome will be rolled out via the browser's automatic updating system starting today.AuthorMartin BrinkmannPublisherGhacks Technology NewsLogoAdvertisement