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Although Google does not have an official release of the Google Chrome, there is a development version available.  Since I use Firefox and Chrome for nearly all of my Windows browsing (some sites just need IE) I to give it a try.  As is the case with any development software there is a possibility of bugs and issues but the risk in losing anything critical with a browser is pretty small.  The installation process for Ubuntu was quick and easier than I expected for a development release and did not require any command prompt instructions.

The first thing you need to do is go to Google’s development page here.

Scroll down near the bottom of the page and click on the version you need (32-bit or 64-bit) and you will see the following page.

After you click Accept and Download you will see the following popup box.  Since you want to open it with the GDebi Package Installer, leave the default and press OK.

The installer will open up with information about the installation.  If you would like more detailed information you can look at the different tabs, pressing the Install Package button will begin the process.

The installation was complete in about a minute, I didn’t even notice the wait.

Now you close the installation box and start Google Chrome by going to Applications -> Internet -> Google Chrome.  The first time it opens it will ask if you want to send statistics and crash reports, Make it the default browser, and import any settings from other browsers.  I checked the box to provide crash reports since it is a development version that may be improved by any issues.  I did not make it the default browser or import settings since I like to provide different settings for my secondary browser.  You can select any of these options however you wish, it is all personal preference.

That’s it, the installation is complete and you are ready to use Google Chrome in Ubuntu.  Click the second tab for information related to the features in Google Chrome if you are not familiar with it.  If you want to add the Bookmarks bar and tab, it is done by selecting the wrench in the top right hand cornet and selecting the option.

Installing Google Chrome automatically adds the Google respository so Chrome will be kept up to date as future releases occur.

I was pleasantly surprised with the ease of installation and with my initial testing the browser seemed quick and responsive.  I am interested to see how it works with some more intensive web use, but if it is anything like my initial testing it will be an excellent addition to my Ubuntu system.