Google has officially released its new Chrome web browser. In conjunction with the release, Google has also launched Chromium, an open-source software project that enables third-party developers to study, modify, extend, and redistribute the underlying source code of the Chrome browser.
Google has made the Chrome source available under a permissive BSD license so that it can be incorporated into both open and proprietary software programs. Detailed build instructions are available for Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. The Linux port is still in early stages of development and is not yet fully functional.
In addition to providing full access to the source code, Google also offers instructions that explain how to submit patches. Google is clearly serious about making sure that Chrome development is sufficiently participatory and inclusive. Users will be able to get involved by submitting bug reports too.
The source code of Chrome's high-performance V8 JavaScript engine is also open and available for download. During a press briefing today, Google expressed hope that other browsers will adopt V8 to help accelerate the evolution of web applications. The V8 engine is highly modular, and could theoretically be used in other contexts as well.
Our initial Chrome tests have shown us that the browser has serious potential. The availability of the source code will hopefully make it possible for open-source community members to get involved and help complete the Linux port.
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