As previously mentioned, the new Google Extensions for Chrome gallery opened to the public today. Even though you still can’t technically use them without installing the developer version of the software, it hasn’t stopped thousands of people descending on the site to download the new addons and to have a look at how Google really plans to develop its new product.

Upon first arrival, it’s easy to notice the lists of most popular and featured extensions. Each of them offers something different to the end-user, so let’s take a quick look at the first Top 5 Chrome Extensions and see what is included!
Google Mail Checker
Google’s own email notifier finds itself as the most used Chrome Extension, probably because people have been able to download it for the last nine months instead of the last nine hours like its competitors. Whatever the reason for it sitting atop the league table, it is a useful and simple addon which anyone with a Gmail account must have.
Google Translate
Another ‘in house’ product, Google Translate adds a button to the browser which allows the user to translate the page that they are on into a number of different languages (based on Google’s translation service). It is useful for people who wish to translate whole pages of information, and when the service improves more and more it will be very valuable for international users.
RSS subscription Extension
Another of the originals, the RSS subscription extension simply adds a small orange button into the omnibar which then allows you to subscribe to the site’s RSS feed easily.
AdThwart
One of the newer Chrome extensions, AdThwart blocks adverts on websites. It looks like a slick package (we will be doing a more in-depth review later), but one thing to note is that it uses a listing to find adverts (so with some work it should work automatically and not require you to note where the ads are yourself).
Xmarks for Chrome Beta
Xmarks is one of the most popular Firefox extensions which has now found its way onto Chrome. It is a cross-browser service which allows access to your bookmarks from any browser. It doesn’t take long to set up, and once there it allows fast synchronization between any browser with the extension installed. Look for this one to climb the charts quickly!
That’s all for now, as the Developer’s gallery has just opened, expect for big changes in these lists in the coming few days. We’ll keep you up to date with any changes here on Chrome Extensions!


