Google has accelerated the pace of security updates for the Chrome browser, issuing one every two weeks instead of once every four weeks in a move it said was aimed at keeping pace with the growing discovery of vulnerabilities and cyberthreats linked to artificial intelligence technologies. The company announced the change alongside the release of Chrome version 153 for desktop computers and iPhone and Android phones.
Artificial intelligence uncovers more vulnerabilities
The new schedule is linked to an increase in the number of vulnerabilities uncovered by AI models, as well as reports submitted by the user community. Google relies on AI agents developed by Chrome’s cybersecurity team using the Gemini model.
A vulnerability hidden for more than 13 years
Among the results announced by Google was the discovery of a vulnerability in Chrome’s sandbox after it had remained hidden for more than 13 years. The vulnerability allows code to escape the isolated environment inside the browser, potentially giving it access to data in the browser and files stored on the computer.
Google said its vulnerability-hunting agents use multiple methods when reviewing Chrome’s source code, including drawing on previously discovered vulnerabilities, cybersecurity documents and browser memory, as well as analyzing how it works.
Faster fixes amid browser competition
The faster update schedule comes amid competition between Chrome and browsers that have integrated AI tools or focused on privacy, including Firefox, Brave, Dia, Comet and DuckDuckGo. The shorter schedule gives Google more scope to deliver security fixes and new features to users at a faster pace.
