Google announced today the release of the Beta version of its new browser, Chrome. In a bold move, Google hope to offer users not just an alternative to IE or Firefox, but an all new way of browsing.

The open source application, which is based on the Webkit browser engine, has many interesting features centered on the needs of the individual user, which will make for a better browsing experience. With an integrated, streamlined java virtual machine dubbed V8, and perhaps the most interesting – the Process Manager feature, will give each tab a separate process, so that if one page crashes, it does not crash the entire browser.

Other interesting features are the speed-dial, similar to the one on Opera, and the privacy mode, which will launch a new window from which no browsing history whatsoever is stored, disallowing tracking from that machine at least.

Google has fashioned Chrome as the browser of the next generation, and whether it is or not, it will at the very least make not only other browser developers, but the general public as well to rethink the concept.

However the release of a new platform also stands as a perfect hunting ground for those who would find exploits and weaknesses in the code, raising security concerns, especially for companies, in which the browser will undoubtedly emerge among employees. Food for thought for managers and IT administrators worldwide.

All-in-all, Chrome looks like it will not only be a serious contender in the emerging browser market, and a new thorn in the side of Microsoft, but an opportunity for evolution in the realm of web browsing. Will it also have negative effects? Time will tell.

Meanwhile, we look forward to this breath of fresh air in web technology.