Google Chrome for Android beta released

Google has released a beta version of their multi-platform web browser, Chrome for Android devices. Chrome for Android is available exclusively for devices running Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) since the underlying technology depends on some of the more advanced Android features.

Contrary to what many people think, the default web browser that ships with Android is not actually Chrome.

Just like its desktop counterpart, the mobile version of Chrome is designed with emphasis on being fast. It features accelerated page loading, Chrome sync, incognito (Chrome's private browsing) mode, tabbed browsing etc. It imports tabs from other computers properly and also integrates well with Google services such as Maps and YouTube.

Compatible devices also include tablets such as the Asus Transformer Prime along with Google's Nexus phones.

The media regards the browser as a direct competitor to Apple's mobile Safari, even in beta.

Download Chrome Beta for your Android ICS device from the Marketplace here.

Google Chrome for Android beta released