As work from home is gradually becoming the new normal for millions of people across the world in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Google has paused the upcoming releases of Chrome and Chrome Operating System (OS) and decided to keep the existing and essential software up and running globally.
In a tweet today, the Chrome development team acknowledged that “adjusted work schedules” have led the company to hit pause on “upcoming Chrome and Chrome OS releases.”
“Our goal is to ensure they continue to be stable, secure, and reliable for anyone who depends on them. We’ll prioritise updates related to security, which will be included in Chrome 80. Stay tuned,” the Chrome team tweeted late Wednesday.
Chrome version 81 is currently in beta testing. Google also said that Android app reviews will take more time as the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced in-office staff.
The delay is understandable as in the case of new software releases, bugs are often reported and with reduced staff, it would be difficult for Google to address those vulnerability concerns, if these arise.
(With input from agencies)