The Chrome browser’s synchronization, or Chrome Sync, allows you to store various types of data in your Google account. From passwords to addresses, payment methods, browser history, tabs, and even personalization like a theme – using Chrome Sync allows you to use that data across several devices simultaneously, so long as you have an internet connection. It’s honestly what makes “Google magic” so special, in my opinion. Before now, anyone who added their Google account to the Chrome browser would be forced to use Chrome Sync. This meant that if they signed in for anything at all, absolutely everything in their account would synchronize to that device, but over the coming months, that will no longer be a requirement.

Last year, the company made it easier to use payment methods with autofill by separating them from Chrome Sync. Now it’s doing the same for single account sign-in and password management! You’ll soon be able to ‘Sign-in with Google’ on sites that offer the feature, even if you’re not using Chrome Sync. You can always turn it on at a later time if you’re interested, but removing the requirement offers more flexibility for those who are interested.

Additionally, you will be able to store and retrieve passwords from Google’s password manager on your account without Chrome Sync. Not only that, but Chrome will also allow you to choose where you want to store new passwords. Previously, you could only store them in your account, but now you’ll be able to select ‘on this device’ as an option. You can retrieve on device passwords for autofill as well, but unless you store it on your account, you won’t be able to fill passwords on other devices!