Google Chrome provides multiple release channels through its development process for users to experience new features early and provide feedback. These channels are called Stable, Beta, Dev, and Canary, each offering different levels of stability and feature availability.
Stable Channel
The Stable channel is thoroughly tested by Chrome’s testing team and is the best choice to avoid crashes and other issues. This channel is updated with minor releases approximately every 2-3 weeks and major releases approximately every 6 weeks[0].
Beta Channel
The Beta channel is where you can see the next update with minimal risk. This channel is updated approximately weekly, with major updates every 6 weeks, more than a month before the Stable channel receives them[0].
Dev Channel
The Dev channel is where you need to go to quickly see what’s in progress in development. The Dev channel is updated 1-2 times per week, showing work currently in progress. There is no delay between major versions. This build is tested, but is used despite bugs because we want to show people new features as soon as possible[0].
Canary Build
Canary builds are the bleeding edge. Released daily, they are released as soon as the build is created because they haven’t been tested or used[0].
Why Use These Channels Separately
- Stability: The Stable channel is the most stable and provides the safest browsing experience for general users.
- New Features: The Beta channel provides new features, and the Dev channel lets you see the latest developments. Canary builds provide the newest features but have the lowest stability.
- Development and Testing: Dev channel and Canary builds are used by developers to test new features and major changes.
By using these channels separately, users can experience new features early according to their needs while maintaining stability. For example, if you’re interested in new features but stability is important, you can choose the Beta channel. On the other hand, developers can use the Dev channel or Canary builds to test new features and provide feedback.
Additionally, since these channels can run in parallel without affecting each other, you can try the latest code while also keeping a tested version of Chrome[0].