Update your Google Chrome install now, or risk losing your bookmarks and more

(Image credit: Monticello / Shutterstock)

If you've been putting off updating Chrome, you'll want to do so soon as Google has revealed that it will end support for Chrome sync for those still running version 48 of its browser or below.

For those unfamiliar, Chrome sync is a feature in the software giant's browser that stores a user's bookmarks, passwords, history, open tabs and settings preferences on the company's servers so they can be accessed from any device running Chrome. Chrome Sync also automatically signs you into Gmail, YouTube, Google Search and other Google services so you can start working on a project on your Chromebook and finish it on your Android smartphone or other devices running Chrome.

In a new post on the Google Chrome Community page, product support manager at Google, Craig Tumblison provided further details on the upcoming change, saying:

Time for an upgrade

Users that want to continue using Chrome sync will need to update their browser to Chrome version 49 or higher by clicking on the “More” menu at the top right of the browser and clicking “Update Google Chrome”. However, it's worth noting that if this option doesn't appear, you're already running the latest version of Chrome.

At the same time, if a Chrome update is pending the icon will be colored green if it was released less than two days ago, orange if the update was released about four days ago and red if an update was released at least a week ago. After updating Chrome, you'll need to restart your browser for the update to take effect.

Although Google has said that users will need to update to at least Chrome 49 to continue using Chrome sync, the company's browser is currently on version 95 though version 96 is scheduled to reach its stable channel soon.

In addition to having access to all of the latest features, running the most current version of Chrome will help protect you from attacks exploiting vulnerabilities that have already been patched in Google's browser.

Looking to improve your browsing experience? Check out our roundups of the best browser, best VPN services and best proxy

Via Bleeping Computer

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After working with the TechRadar Pro team for the last several years, Anthony is now the security and networking editor at Tom’s Guide where he covers everything from data breaches and ransomware gangs to the best way to cover your whole home or business with Wi-Fi. When not writing, you can find him tinkering with PCs and game consoles, managing cables and upgrading his smart home.