How to Try Google Chrome Beta Features

When you open a new tab in Google Chrome, you typically see about: in the address or location bar. Most users never think twice about this page and just continue on to their favorite websites. Did you know you can actually access features Google is currently testing with just a quick alteration to the about: text? Be the first of your friends to try out Google Chrome's latest features. Become the person everyone comes to when they want to learn how to use the new features.

Flags

The Flags function in Chrome allows you to see all the new features Google is working on. They want you to try them out. The best way for programmers and engineers to know what does and doesn't work is through consistent testing. The best testers are actual users. However, anytime you test a beta feature, be careful. There are no guarantees the feature will work as expected. Before trying anything you find in the Flags function, do the following:

-Backup all personal information and files

-Be sure to backup your favorites or bookmarks as well

-Read all information and warnings in their entirety for every feature you try

When you're ready, open a new Google Chrome browser window. Place your cursor in the location bar at the top of the screen. This is also called the address bar and will more than likely have your home page's URL listed. Delete all text in the location. One quick way is to press Ctrl + A and then Del or Delete.

Type the following: about:flags. The colon must be between the two words, with no spaces. Press Enter to display current Chrome beta features. Browse through the list to see what is available. Currently, Chrome is testing features such as Side Tabs, Print Preview in the browser, Multiple Profiles and around 10 other features. The list is constantly changing, so keep a check.

Press Enable under any feature you want to try. The next step is to experiment to your heart's content. You can disable most features through the Tools menu in Google Chrome.

If you don't want to try out new features, but still want some type of benefit from the blank about: page, check your current memory usage for any browsers you are currently using. Type about:memory and press Enter to view a detailed breakdown of memory usage for each browser. You can view any memory extensions or add-ons are using as well as each individual tab you have open. This is great for troubleshooting any features or pages hogging up valuable resources.

Whether you're just interested in trying out the latest or consider yourself a bit of a geek, these two about: functions are definitely worth checking out.