Google Chrome is about to make some changes that will really make Apple mad

Google is testing Blink on iOS devices despite WebKit restriction

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A new report by has uncovered thatGoogle’s Chromium engineers are testing the Blinkbrowserengine on iOS devices instead of Apple’s WebKit engine.

Any software onApple’s App Store is required, under its terms and policies, to use the WebKit engine, including the existing version ofGoogle Chrome. However, Chromium developers seem to be preparing for a future that may allow the company to use the Blink engine that usually powers itsbrowserelsewhere.

A Chromiumbug reporton the matter highlights that “this experimental application will be used to measure graphics and input latencies by providing traces for analysis.”

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Google Chrome for iOS

The post continues: “Experimental only, not a launch bug for a shippable product.”

Why Google is working on a project that uses Blink on iOS devices is unclear at the moment, because Apple continues to enforce its WebKit policy.

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However, some have speculated that, amid US government pressure to open up platforms and other EU regulatory action that has implied that users should be able to download apps outside of their native store environment, Apple may soon have to allow a lot of practices that it has previously condemned.

If this is the case, then it’s possible that a Blink-powered Chrome app will be allowed, bringing it in line with the rest of Google’s offerings, and a head-start will give it a one-up on other competitors that will likely be tempted to use their own default engines rather than Apple’s WebKit.

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A Google spokesperson toldTechRadar Pro:

“This is an experimental prototype that we are developing as part of an open source project with the goal to understand certain aspects of performance on iOS. It will not be available to users and we’ll continue to abide by Apple’s policies.”

Apple did not immediately respond to our request for comment.

ViaThe Register

With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!

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