Internet Explorer 8 Beta 2 Review - Geek Reviews
A First Look at Internet Explorer 8 Beta 2
A considerable amount of time has passed since Microsoft initially released the first beta version of Internet Explorer 8, prompting speculation about their future plans. Upon learning about the extensive array of new features incorporated into Beta 2 – including private browsing, tab grouping, and an innovative smart address bar – I felt compelled to test it and share my findings with our readership.
Installation Process
Let's begin by examining what Internet Explorer 8 Beta 2 offers. The installation process begins with a series of options. I am documenting each screen to provide a firsthand account for those who haven't yet explored this new beta.
During the initial setup, the option to receive the latest updates is presented. Naturally, accepting this update is advisable.
Rebooting After Installation. Following installation, a system reboot is required. Internet Explorer then proposes to assist in discovering websites by suggesting them. While I typically decline such features, I enabled it for the purposes of this review. This setting can be disabled at any time.
The installer then presents a choice between Express and Custom settings. Opting for Custom Settings grants greater control over the configuration process.
Configuring Accelerator Providers
Accelerator Providers function by interacting with selected text on a webpage to facilitate tasks like defining words or obtaining directions. If you are comfortable with Microsoft’s services, selecting that option is appropriate. I chose to view additional Accelerator options. Disabling the providers is possible, but exploring the features is recommended. I am particularly enthusiastic about these new integrated capabilities.
SmartScreen Filter Activation. To evaluate all aspects of this beta, including the enhanced security features, I activated the SmartScreen Filter. This feature provides protection against phishing attempts and other online scams.
Finally, the option to designate Internet Explorer as the default browser is presented. While I remain a Firefox user, I chose to import data from Firefox.
The subsequent screen prompts for browser selection.
Bookmarks and feeds were imported successfully.
Exploring New Features
Examining the New Capabilities. Let’s delve into the features! The extensive list of available Accelerators immediately caught my attention. As Internet Explorer 8 gains wider adoption, expect to see an increasing number of third-party Accelerators. I will test these further later.
A message regarding the potential need for an add-on for the MSN homepage also appeared. It resembled an ActiveX warning but wasn’t explicitly identified as such. The domain name is also visually distinguished from the rest of the URL.
I wish Microsoft would refrain from displaying this on their own site! I accepted it and continued, though caution should be exercised when allowing ActiveX controls to run due to potential security risks.
A notable aspect of this Beta is the abundance of features available without requiring additional downloads. Many features, such as Developer Tools, are enabled by default.
The trend towards an intuitive address bar continues. Firefox 3 features the “awesome bar,” while Internet Explorer 8 introduces a Smart Address Bar that attempts to predict your desired website based on browsing history. Only five history entries are initially displayed, with an expand arrow available for more. I found the Smart Address Bar to be more intuitive and responsive than the “Awesome Bar”.
Enhanced Browsing Features
Improved Tabbed Browsing. Internet Explorer 8 enhances tabbed browsing functionality. Right-clicking a tab now reveals options to Duplicate tabs or reopen the last closed tab – features previously requiring add-ons.
The Tab Group feature highlights tabs originating from the same source, allowing for easy visual identification and simultaneous closure. This is particularly useful for research, enabling you to close all tabs opened from a search engine while preserving others.
The Quick Tabs button displays thumbnails of open pages. Tab groups are now highlighted in this view, facilitating quick access to specific pages.
This version of IE incorporates Crash Recovery, mirroring a feature previously available only through add-ons. In the event of a browser crash, the last session, including all open tabs, can be restored.
Search and Security Enhancements
Improved Search Functionality. The search feature has been refined, offering a list of available providers. Even with a default provider selected, you can add as many as you desire.
You can choose a different provider and view results directly in the drop-down box. Here’s an example using Amazon.
The search box drop-down now displays both your history and suggestions from your chosen search engine. Icons at the bottom allow for quick switching between them.
Enhanced Security with Private Browsing. Two new tools enhance security and privacy. InPrivate browsing, accessible from the Tools menu, prevents the saving of browsing data such as cookies, temporary files, and history.
Suggested Sites Feature. The Suggested Sites button offers links to websites with similar content. While I encountered some difficulties finding relevant sites for smaller blogs, I anticipate improvements over time.
Compatibility View. New browser versions often present compatibility challenges for webmasters. IE8 utilizes "Standards Mode" by default, which adheres more closely to web standards, but can sometimes cause issues. The Compatibility View button on the address bar allows you to view sites in a more compatible mode if needed.
Conclusion
This iteration of Internet Explorer represents a significant advancement over previous versions, offering a feature set competitive with Firefox. Early adopters will find it worthwhile, but those relying on IE for critical tasks may want to await the final release due to potential compatibility issues. Internet Explorer 8 Beta 2 - microsoft.com