
Google has announced a significant change to its Chrome browser’s synchronization feature. Starting in early 2025, Chrome Sync will cease functioning on browser versions older than four years. This popular feature, which allows users to synchronize bookmarks, passwords, browsing history, open tabs, settings, and payment information across devices, will require users to update to newer Chrome versions to maintain functionality.
Users running outdated Chrome versions will encounter error messages prompting them to “Update Chrome to start sync” or “Update Chrome to keep using the Chrome data in your Google Account.” Those unable to update their browsers to versions less than four years old will lose access to Chrome Sync functionality on affected devices.
The announcement comes as Google Chrome maintains its dominant position in the browser market, commanding 68.34% of worldwide usage and 66.83% on desktop platforms, according to StatCounter data.
This decision aligns with Google’s broader security initiatives, following similar actions such as:
– The 2021 termination of Chrome Sync support for versions 48 and earlier
– Blocking third-party Chromium-based browsers from accessing private Google APIs
– Recent changes to extension policies, including potential restrictions on popular add-ons like uBlock Origin
The move appears to be part of Google’s strategy to encourage users to maintain up-to-date browser versions with the latest security patches and features.