Google Now could be coming to Chrome browser, would be perfect iGoogle replacement
Code discovered within Google’s Chromium project has started speculation that Google Now’s predictive cards system could soon migrate from Android handsets to the desktop version of the Chrome browser. Backend commands were uncovered for the purpose of “creating a skeleton for Google Now for Chrome implementation” using Chrome’s notifications extension.
While the discovery does little to reveal Google’s actual plans, the implementation of the popular Jelly Bean feature into more Google products makes sense. Last week we asked readers how they felt about Google Now, with a majority of those responding to our poll saying they like the concept, but feel improvements are needed. Perhaps one of those improvements is ubiquity. Having access to Google Now in more places via more Google services would not only improve its usefulness but also increase the service’s data set, allowing for cards with more accurate and relevant information.
Google Now as part of the Chrome browser seems like the perfect replacement to the soon-to-be defunct iGoogle homepage. That service, which already uses a card-like system to provide info on weather, sports scores, email and appointments, and more, will cease to exist on November 1st, 2013. Bringing Google Now to the forefront of the Chrome experience could go a long way. As things stand, the service is tucked away in Android devices. If you weren’t looking you might not be able to find it.
Having said all this, there is no guarantee we will see Google Now as part of Chrome. If we do, it could be months or more down the road. But the idea has us intrigued. Let’s just hope Google Now is a bit more useful by then.
[G+ via BriefMobile]