Google on Thursday said it would soon release a preview of its Chrome browser compatible with the Windows 8 Metro environment.

Google began work on a Metro-style enabled desktop browser in March. This version Chrome will run in both the Metro and desktop environments of Windows 8 on x86. (Chrome won't run in WinRT, i.e. Windows 8 on ARM processors, as Microsoft is not allowing browsers other than Internet Explorer on the platform.)

Google did not say when it will release the bew Metro Chrome, but it will be included in the next Chrome Dev channel release. Chrome in Metro mode will be compatible with the Release Preview of Windows 8.

Google's "channels" include versions of Chrome, with escalating levels of stability and reliability.

The browser will run in both Windows 8's x86/64 "desktop" mode and in the tablet "Metro" mode, where "apps" have essentially replaced programs.



The initial releases of Chrome in Metro mode will include integration with the basic Windows 8 system functionality, such as charms and snap view.

Over the next few months, Google plans to smooth out the UI on Metro and improv touch support.