Google Now Headed to the Desktop via Chrome Update

Google Now, an all-purpose alert system introduced in Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, is hopping over to the desktop. It will be integrated into a future build of the Chrome browser, giving desktop users access to the same groovy alerts and notifications that Android users receive, such as birthday reminders, weather alerts, nearby traffic information, and a plethora of other information to help you plan your day.

It's unclear when Google Now for Chrome will debut, though a "skeleton" framework exists for the final product. And while CNet claims to have confirmed with Google its plans to port Google Now to Chrome, the sultan of search is keeping the details tight lipped at the moment, saying "we have nothing to announce at this time."


Google Now is primed for mobile scenarios, which makes the move to desktop seem a little odd at first glance, but it can still be useful. It also creates a more personal experience, giving users even fewer reasons to leave the confines of Google's varied services.

There's also the potential to make Google Now a cross-platform service by integrating it into the Chrome browser. It wouldn't be as well integrated as with Android, but it could conceivably be used on Windows Phone and iOS devices via Google's web browser.