A Chrome bug is slowing extension load times to a snail’s pace on macOS, Google is aware

9to5google.com Sep 21, 2026

A Chrome bug is slowing extension load times to a snail’s pace on macOS, Google is aware

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Sep 21, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

A bug in recent Google Chrome updates is causing extensions on macOS to load up to 60 seconds, far longer than the expected few seconds. The issue, reported by PiunikaWeb and logged on the Chromium issue tracker, primarily affects macOS Chrome, not Windows or mobile. Popular extensions such as 1Password’s password manager are impacted, though other extensions show inconsistent delays. Google acknowledges the problem, is investigating it as a priority, and has suggested a temporary flag workaround.

💡 Why It Matters

· The slowdown hampers daily productivity for users relying on quick‑access extensions, exposing a critical performance flaw in a widely used browser.

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Googlebook hands-on: What makes a laptop, a laptop? [Video]

Google has officially released its first wave of Googlebooks, five laptops running Googlebook OS. Prices start at $899, with models from Dell, HP, ASUS, Lenovo, and Acer. All feature 120 Hz touchscreens, 16 GB of RAM, and either Intel Core Ultra or Snapdragon X Elite processors. The lineup shows improved build quality and performance compared to past Chromebooks, with standout models from Dell XPS and HP. The devices lack expandable storage and carry a premium price tag, but deliver a responsive Android experience.

💡 The launch signals Google’s push to redefine the laptop market with high‑end Android hardware, offering a touch‑centric alternative to traditional Windows and macOS machines.

techcrunch.com · Sep 21

From first users to billions: Google’s Robby Stein joins TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

At TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, Google Search product VP Robby Stein led a session on scaling product decisions from MVP to billions of users. The fireside chat examined how teams balance speed, trust, and reliability when every update impacts a global audience. Stein drew on his experience at Instagram, Stamped, and Google’s AI Mode, which now serves over a billion monthly users. He highlighted the need to evolve experimentation practices and maintain user confidence as products grow.

💡 The session offers a rare blueprint for founders navigating the shift from rapid iteration to responsible scaling, illustrating how to preserve innovation without compromising reliability.

androidcentral.com · Sep 21

The first Googlebooks are here, powered by Snapdragon X Elite

Qualcomm has announced that its Snapdragon X Elite platform will power the first Googlebook laptops, a partnership with Google that centers on Gemini Intelligence. Dell and HP are the initial manufacturers, offering preorders for the HP Googlebook 14 and Dell models. The Snapdragon X Elite features a 12‑core Oryon CPU up to 4 GHz, a Hexagon NPU delivering 45 TOPS, and supports Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, LPDDR5x, and up to three 4K displays. Integrated Android app support and continuity features such as Cast my Apps and Magic Pointer aim to blur the line between Android devices and laptops.

💡 By combining on‑device AI with high‑performance mobile silicon, Googlebook could redefine the laptop market, offering a competitive alternative to Windows and macOS for everyday productivity.

analyticsinsight.net · Sep 21

What is Google Gemini? Know Its Features, AI Models, Everyday Uses

Google has launched Gemini, a multimodal AI platform that processes text, images, audio, video, and code within a single system. Developed by DeepMind, Gemini powers a range of Google services—including Search, Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Android, and Windows—offering smart search, voice conversations, writing assistance, coding help, image creation, and real‑time document analysis. The new family includes specialized models such as Gemini 3.8 Flash for speed, Gemini 3.1 Pro for advanced reasoning, Gemini 3.1 Deep Think for scientific tasks, and Gemini 3.8 Live for natural voice interactions. These models enable complex, multi‑step tasks and real‑time collaboration across Google’s ecosystem.

💡 By unifying diverse data types into one AI engine, Gemini streamlines workflows across productivity, creative, and technical domains, reducing the need for separate tools and accelerating innovation within Google’s product suite.

androidcentral.com · Sep 21

This tiny Gmail update makes dealing with verification codes much easier

Google has added a “Copy Code” shortcut to the Gmail mobile app, automatically appearing when an OTP or verification code lands in a user’s inbox. The button shows as a small card beneath the email subject and also alongside the message preview in the main inbox, allowing users to tap and paste the code without manual selection. The feature is rolling out in the latest Gmail updates for both Android and iOS, though the inbox‑level button is not yet consistently displayed. Unlike the native Messages app, Gmail’s shortcut does not yet integrate with Gboard, so users must still open the email to copy the code. Users are advised to update the app to access the new functionality.

💡 It streamlines a common friction point for mobile users, turning email‑based two‑factor authentication into a single‑tap action.

247wallst.com · Sep 21

The AI Agent Wars Just Got Personal: Google’s CC vs. Meta’s Muse

Alphabet and Meta have launched competing consumer AI agents—Google’s family‑oriented CC and Meta’s single‑user Muse—that can act on users’ behalf rather than merely answer questions. CC supports up to six family members and is tightly integrated with Google’s ecosystem, while Muse offers broader autonomy across a user’s digital life, including commerce. Both companies are investing billions in AI infrastructure, but Google maintains a lower valuation (P/E 14 vs. 24) and stronger margin profile, whereas Meta’s recent earnings miss and margin compression raise concerns. The launch marks a pivotal moment in the AI agent race, with each firm targeting distinct user models and use cases.

💡 The agents’ ability to perform real actions could redefine digital productivity and commerce, positioning the leading firm as the default platform for everyday automation.