Chrome Update Cycle Accelerated by Google

Chrome Browser to Adopt Faster Release Schedule

Google has announced a shift in its release strategy for the Chrome browser. Moving forward, new milestones will be delivered every four weeks, a reduction from the previous six-week cycle.

This change is accompanied by the continuation of bi-weekly security patches. The acceleration in release cadence mirrors a similar adjustment made by Mozilla for Firefox last year.

Improved Testing and Release Processes

The Chrome team states that advancements in their testing and release methodologies, alongside the implementation of bi-weekly security updates to minimize the patch gap, have enabled this faster delivery of new features.

These improvements have demonstrated the capability to shorten the release cycle effectively.

Extended Stable Option for Enterprise Users

Recognizing that not all users require such frequent updates, particularly within enterprise environments, Google is introducing an Extended Stable option.

This option will provide updates on an eight-week schedule. Enterprise administrators and Chromium embedders will have access to this feature.

While still receiving bi-weekly security updates, users opting for the Extended Stable channel will not receive new features or the complete set of security fixes included in the four-week release.

Timeline and Future Milestones

The new four-week release cycle will commence with Chrome 94 in the third quarter of 2021. At this accelerated pace, Chrome 100 is projected to launch to the stable channel by March 29, 2022.

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