Restore Chrome & Firefox Tabs with TabCloud - Across Devices
Synchronizing Browser Sessions Across Platforms
Following my adoption of Ubuntu, the need for effective program installation synchronization became increasingly apparent. Previously, I relied on Xmarks, but it unfortunately began to generate numerous errors. Similar issues arose with Swimming Session within Google Chrome.
My search for a solution led me to TabCloud, and I was greatly pleased to discover a tool specifically designed for managing tab sessions across various machines and browsers.
What is TabCloud?
TabCloud is an open-source extension enabling users to save browser sessions and subsequently restore them on different browser installations. This functionality extends across multiple operating systems and machines.
The extension has proven remarkably reliable in my workflow, seamlessly functioning with Chrome on Windows and Chromium on Ubuntu.
With tools like Quix addressing bookmark keyword management, and TabCloud facilitating link sharing, working across diverse operating systems has become significantly more manageable.
Getting Started with TabCloud
The Chrome version of TabCloud is available here. An experimental plugin for Firefox was previously available here [No Longer Available].
Initial setup requires logging in with a Google account.
TabCloud offers a practical solution for maintaining browser session consistency, particularly for users who frequently switch between operating systems or devices.
Preserving Your Browser Sessions
After the extension is installed and you’ve logged in using your Google account, two distinct options become accessible through a right-click on the extension’s icon.
Session Restoration Options
These options allow for the restoration of saved sessions either within the existing tab or by opening them in a completely new browser window.
Furthermore, users can configure settings to determine whether a confirmation prompt appears before deleting saved sessions or closing a window.
Saving a Session
To save your current browsing session, initiate the process by clicking the TabCloud icon. Following this, select the disk icon to begin saving your open tabs.
The favicons of the open tabs provide a visual confirmation of what is being saved.
A descriptive name can be assigned to the session, or if left blank, TabCloud will automatically populate the session name with the current date and time.
TabCloud offers a straightforward method for managing and restoring browser sessions, enhancing workflow and productivity.
Session Management Capabilities
Reordering saved sessions is possible through drag-and-drop functionality, though this feature is currently exclusive to Google Chrome users.
Even if the specific website associated with a favicon isn't immediately clear, hovering the mouse cursor over the icon will display a tooltip revealing the site's title. Selecting an icon provides direct access to the corresponding webpage.
Deleting saved sessions is straightforward once a collection grows. However, Firefox users should note that a confirmation prompt, available in Google Chrome, is not presented during deletion.
TabCloud offers an official application for Android smartphone users. This allows for seamless continuation of browsing sessions initiated on a desktop browser, but on a smaller mobile screen. iOS users can utilize a dedicated, iPhone-optimized webpage for similar functionality.
The primary advantage of this extension lies in its ease of saving current browser tabs. While tools like Xmarks, and the native syncing features of Opera, Google Chrome, and Firefox manage entire bookmark collections, TabCloud addresses a different need.
It’s particularly useful when transitioning between different browsers or continuing browsing on a different computer, such as a work machine or a public terminal with a portable browser installation. This plugin significantly simplifies the experience of working across multiple operating systems and browsers.
The interface is designed for simplicity and intuitive use, making it a tool users will likely recommend to others. It enhances the browsing experience across various devices and environments.
We are interested in learning about the applications you utilize for sharing links between computers. Please share your recommendations in the comments section below!