One of the most interesting functions of web browsers is the possibility of synchronizing our data with the cloud. Among others, we can synchronize bookmarks, history, settings and extensions. In this way, when we go to a new computer, we can leave the browser just as we had it on the other PC, and our data always travels with us. Synchronization with Google servers is one of the most used. However, the company is going to block this feature to all Chromium-based web browsers other than Google Chrome.
This same weekend, Google discovered that Chromium-based web browsers are circulating on the Internet that illegally use the Google API to allow users to synchronize data with Google’s servers. This function is one of the exclusive features of Google Chrome, so it should not be used by third-party browsers. The same is true of other features, such as Click to Call , which are being abused by users.
Chromium-based browsers will not be able to use Google Sync
Google has not provided the data of the browsers that are using this feature, but any browser that, based on Chromium, allows us to log in with our Google account is included.
The company has announced that, as of March 15 of this year, the Google Sync API , as well as other exclusive functions of the Google browser, will be blocked for all those browsers other than Google Chrome. With this move, Google ends the abuses that some developers make use of its functions and, incidentally, will leave these browsers “incomplete” to encourage users to use their own browser.
We remember that not even Chromium itself allows synchronization with Google’s servers . This feature is exclusive to Google Chrome. And, in less than two months, it will be much more exclusive.
Of course, it must be borne in mind that these browsers will not stop working. The only thing that will no longer allow us to log in with our Google account and keep our data synchronized with the cloud. And to continue offering this functionality, its developers will have to set up their own infrastructure.
What about Edge, Opera, Vivaldi and Brave?
There are other Chromium-based browsers, like Edge , that have cloud syncing features. This browser, for example, has its own synchronization service, it does not depend on Google, and therefore it will not be affected. Vivaldi, for example, is another browser that has its own non-Google data synchronization system, and therefore will have no problems. Opera and Brave follow the same guidelines. The only browsers that will be affected are those that allow you to log in with your Google account and keep your data synchronized with the cloud.
The same is true if any other browser, even based on Chromium, creates its own data synchronization system. This will be able to use it without problems. The only problem, as we say, is the unauthorized use of the Google API.