Google Apps to Only Support the Latest Versions of Major Browsers

Starting August 1, Google Apps will only support functionality for the newest versions of the major Web browsers.

Google says that such as desktop Gmail notifications and drag-and-drop file upload in Google Docs “require advanced browsers that support HTML5.” The move fits within Google’s plan to bring all computer-based functionality to the Web, with its Chrome browser and operating system the tip of the spear.

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On August 1, Google Apps will cease functionality for Firefox 3.5, Internet Explorer 7 and Safari 3. Google Chrome 11 is the newest version of Google’s browser and unlike the others, Chrome updates to new versions automatically.

In theory, supporting just the last two releases of the four major browsers should make it easier to earn Google Apps Certification, a program Google announced in February. Google gave administrators the ability to opt out of automatically receiving the newest updates in March, a move that is beneficial for enterprises that often are not able to move fast enough to maintain security and cross-business functionality.

Also in March, Google launched a “What’s New” page for Google Apps to let users stay up to date on the latest releases. New releases are added to the schedule one week before they go live.

Among other Google Apps updates this year is the ability to delegate administrative tasks to users. That helps company IT departments share the responsibility of performing certain tasks across the enterprise. Google also made changes to its service level agreements in January to eliminate planned downtime for apps.

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