Latest Google Chrome version will not support Windows 8.1 or lower

Google Chrome has rolled out a new update that revises the browser to version 110. The new Chrome 110 version brings support for multiple extensions and fixes a lot of bugs — something most users will appreciate, but it will disappoint some users, too. That is because the Google Chrome 110 version will not support older Windows versions. So, if you have an old or outdated PC and want to use Google Chrome, you must upgrade your hardware.

In its release notes, Google Chrome mentioned that the Chrome 110, which was released on February 7, will no longer support Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Server 2012, and Windows Server 2012 R2. But this decision has not been taken on a whim. Last month, Microsoft said it will end security updates for Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1, so running a browser on such a Windows version may not be ideal.

Google Chrome 110 requires at least Windows 10

Google Chrome 110 version is the first Chrome version that required Windows 10 or later to run. So, users who are using Windows 10 or Windows 11 do not need to worry. They should immediately update their browser to the latest 110 version, which patches cybersecurity issues. Older Windows versions will still support outdated Chrome versions, but neither the operating system will get security updates nor the browser. That means you would use Chrome on your old PC at your own risk. Microsoft’s Windows 10 will also retire in 2025, so if you are buying a new machine, make sure it comes either pre-installed with Windows 11 or has compatible hardware to run Windows 11.

The new Chrome 110 version also brings new features such as customisable network error pages and the option to lock autofill stored passwords on supported computers using biometrics. In other words, Chrome will ask you to authenticate access to the Password Manager by using either the fingerprint or facial data — but only on supported PCs.

The Chrome 110 release also marks the beginning of the new release cycle, which includes an early stable preview of future updates a week before the fully scheduled stable release.