Chrome puts AI agents, multitasking, and Nano Banana inside the browser (www.techradar.com)

Google has announced a significant upgrade to Chrome in the US, introducing an AI-first experience with the new Gemini side panel, Nano Banana image editor, and an innovative Auto Browse feature. The Gemini panel, accessible by clicking the Gemini button, enables users to multitask by managing tasks across multiple tabs, using natural language prompts to summarize information or compare products. Meanwhile, Nano Banana allows for direct image editing within Chrome, eliminating the need to download and upload images separately—a major convenience for users. The standout feature, Auto Browse, leverages AI agents to automate multi-step online tasks such as booking tickets or managing appointments. This tool not only saves time by handling administrative tasks in the background but also integrates with Chrome's Password Manager for seamless logins across sites. Furthermore, the browser's Personal Intelligence feature adds contextual awareness by pulling information from Google's ecosystem, improving the relevance of AI responses. As Google positions Chrome as an AI-centric platform, this update marks a pivotal shift in user interactions with web browsers, focusing on enhancing productivity while maintaining ease of use.