April 2nd, 2008
Google Browser Sync for Firefox 3
posted by Midwinter
UPDATED on 17th June, Firefox download day so scroll for the latest
One of my favourite extensions for my preferred choice of web browser (Mozilla Firefox) has to be Google Browser Sync.
This nifty extension lets you synchronise not only your bookmarks, but visited URLs, passwords and history across all of the browsers you install it on. For example I run it in the office at work, then shut down the PC for the day and head home. I load up Firefox on my home PC and all of my tabs are there from when I left work.
I also use it to synch my browsers across all of my workstations and servers, it beats having to copy paste through Remote Desktop or VNC. As it’s a Firefox extension, there’s no problem when I switch from Windows to Mac and then to Linux.
The only slight problem at the moment is that when I come to upgrade to Firefox 3, it’s no longer supported for that browser version. To be honest it would be already be installed it would work with Browser Sync.
Google have been extremely non responsive on this so far - maybe they just haven’t noticed or perhaps it was someone’s 20% project? If everyone who, like myself, is interested in getting Browser Sync back for FF3 can send them a nice email then maybe I can selfishly migrate!
UPDATE
I’ve been trawling the web a little more to find other people who have commented on this issue, and there’s not an inconsiderable number of others who have noticed. If you go to this thread over on Google groups there’s already a fairly extended number of posts asking for the update.
Adrianm suggests:
“I’ve sent an email to the support alias (labs+browsersync@google.com), so we’ll see what comes back..”
That was on the 19th March, maybe it’s something we should all try? I think I’d rather not suggest a mass email campaign to be honest. What’d be great though is if just one person with a contact at Google can let them know we’re interested! A response either way is just fine by me, then I can tackle the unknown territory that is Mozilla’s Weave.
UPDATE
Just today(April 3rd) Google Groups user mirage posted this:
“Let me just add to this thread and ask for the same thing: please port browser sync to firefox 3. It’s a life saver, and it’s really a bad predicament to have to choose between firefox 3 and browser sync.”
Which exactly mirrors my sentiments. We’re getting a surprising amount of traffic through on Google now with people literally typing in ‘Google Browser Sync Firefox 3′ to try and find any more information on the subject. Let’s see if we can take this momentum and see if we can draw an official response from Google on the matter.
If anyone has any suggestions then drop us a comment or send me an email. I have noticed our server isn’t playing ball with all the traffic coming through on this but we’re in the middle of moving our hosting across to a new dedicated box so hopefully we’ll improve in service a little! I’ll go fire up wp-cache now.
UPDATE
It’s April 9th, I’ve emailed Google’s Press email address after receiving no response at the labs+browsersync address. I think that we need to spread the word about this a little and try and get some support. I’m going to see if some larger tech news sites are interested in giving us a hand.
UPDATE
I received a reply from Google’s Press team (April 10th):
Hi Phil,
Thanks for your interest in Google Browser Sync. This is the first time this has been noted. I am looking into this but it may take a little while.
Best,
C.
So, we were the first to actually make them aware of this interest? It must be difficult to have so many products (and good ones at that) that you can actually lose track of them. Now we know that Google have our pleas noted though and that’s the only response I was looking for.
I’ve also been looking into other avenues - namely the technical challenges to get Google Browser Sync to work correctly with FF3. I suspect I’ve hit upon a snag:
Bookmarks & History
If your extension accesses bookmark or history data in any way, it will need substantial work to be compatible with Firefox 3. The old APIs for accessing this information have been replaced by the new Places architecture. See the Migration Guide for Places for details on updating your existing extension to use the Places API.
This is from Mozilla’s developer documents for extensions. Essentially it looks like the structure of the data itself may have changed significantly enough that the API at Google’s end would also need updating. If this is the case then it means that a 3rd party form of the extension would need to host it’s files away from Google’s servers. Then again maybe not if the new Google App Engine can be used.
UPDATE
It’s the 20th of May - a lot of people have asked if I can update here with the latest information I’ve got on this topic. Unfortunately Google seem to have stopped replying to my emails, I can only assume we’re not a priority for them right now.
Some people have suggested things like online petitioning to try and garner more of their attention but you’d think that with the FF3 release candidate coming under full steam they might of noticed already? Apparently not though, if anyone has any great ideas of how to bring our cause to their attention then please leave a comment or send us an email and we’ll proliferate it amongst our fellow Browser Sync hunters as much as possible!
UPDATE
Today is Firefox 3 download day, an event which hasn’t been as widely publicised as I originally envisioned. Unfortunately I’m not downloading Firefox 3 today - I already have RC2 running on one computer and for now don’t see a particular need to update.
The other 3 or 4 systems I use on a regular basis (I know I’m a geek) are all syncing just fine on GBS thanks. I know that by now most of you have seen the comments that GBS is not going to be released for FF3. Obviously no one is able to fact check that source (it was in an email from Google PR) but I’m inclined to think it’s the real deal and it’s about time one of us managed to get a straight response at least.
If you, like me, are tired of getting told to use Foxmarks or Weave - that DONT do everything GBS does despite anyone who tells you different - then have heart. We’d like to hear from you as to whether you’d be interested in a similar extension made by our team here? Also let us know of the features that are key - of course secure encryption, speed and reliability are big focuses but anything outside of that then slap down a comment and we’ll come up with a feature list.
We’ll go one step further though and be sure to open source the server, as well as the client software!
146 Responses to “Google Browser Sync for Firefox 3”
By Popein on Apr 3, 2008 | Reply
I feel the same, I would be using FF3 if Brwser Sync was working.
However, let’s remember Firefox 3 is just in beta 5, and many of the internals Browser Synch touches change from beta to beta. I think it’s normal an extension like this is made available later, after RC1 probably.
Weave and others are not what I need, I use Browser Sync for cookies and saved passwords, which is very convenient for me.
By Midwinter on Apr 3, 2008 | Reply
I think what gets us mostly is a lack of response so far?
I think google’s new toolbar even takes some sync features - but it’s a format I disklike entirely ever since AOL toolbars used to inject themselves into your internet explorer install.
It was probably dumb luck that when upgrading from firefox 1.5 to 2 browser sync still worked.
What we need though, is to get some information!
By Jake on Apr 4, 2008 | Reply
Yep, I am one who literally typed in “Google browser sync Firefox 3.”
Google! Open up the project and let us help!
By Joakim Westin on Apr 9, 2008 | Reply
I agree with those who would like Browser Sync for FireFox 3.
And I also think that it is strange that Google doesn’t at least comment on this or make some form of statement.
Google Browser Sync is a lifesaver
Cheers,
Joakim
By Ethan Cane on Apr 9, 2008 | Reply
This is a must for Google to get the case with, Firefox 3 is just around the corner and with the release of Hardy Heron at the end of this month and Firefox 3 available they had better get this sorted out soon!
By Ethan Cane on Apr 9, 2008 | Reply
Even getting slated over at Wikipedia about the lack of support for Firefox 3.
Sort it out boys and girls!
PLEASE!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Google_Browser_Sync
By Midwinter on Apr 9, 2008 | Reply
I’ve tried to make contact with the team, the total lack of response since I have done so makes it hard to draw a conclusion as to the ‘why’.
Maybe the team’s been disbanded? I have no idea but as of this week we are getting more traffic for just this post than the rest of the site combined. There is a huge amount of interest to see this implemented quickly.
By kintaro on Apr 12, 2008 | Reply
I must agree, this is a mandatory requirement. I could not do without Google Browser Sync. I have used it since its release, and nothing else compares! I run Linux, Mac and Windows and this extension is truly a gem.
I do like FF3 and this extension is a must have for me. How Google hasn’t heard of this request is beyond me, so if that Post replies here, and also post on the google groups page, there is a good list of supporters on the group thread “Please update google browser sync for firefox 3″
Lets get that extension
By Joe on Apr 12, 2008 | Reply
I couldn’t have Firefox 3 without Google Browser Sync. I’m going to send an e-mail to both Labs and Press now.
By Philip on Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
If Google want to be highhanded about this and ignore there customers, hopefully someone else will write a similar addon.
Looks like Google are getting too big for their boots and need a bit of competition anyway.
By Popein on Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
Philip, don’t be silly. We are very anxious but we can’t get mad for Google not providing an update for a BETA version if Firefox.
It is a very nice addon and service Google provided for free, and we can’t assume they will not update it when the browser gets released. Things are still changing in the browser, and this, I guess, is working with some components that may change. You would not be happy if they provided an update which would stop working in RC1 or is not stable or create trouble with your bookmarks/cookies/etc.
BTW: It’s “their” customers, not “there” customers.
By gsarig on Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
Same here. I want to use FF3 but I can’t (won’t) do it without Google Browser Sync.
By Midwinter on Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
I’m with Popein here… As I outlined above there are technical challenges to moving the extension to a compatible format with Firefox 3’s Places system. The technical specs have been laid out for this so there shouldn’t be a problem with future betas changing though what would be cool is to hear some feedback from Google.
By ungullible.com on Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
Foxmarks (http://www.foxmarks.com) is actively updating their plug-in to sync FF3 bookmarks. You can create an account and then ask to be in their beta test group (I got my invite a few days after asking), or you can wait for the full release. The up-side is that it syncs both FF2 & FF3 bookmarks. The downside is that it *only* syncs bookmarks - not passwords, history, cookies, or anything else.
By gsarig on Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
I already tried Foxmarks, but as you said, it syncs only bookmarks. I use 3 different computers almost every day and google browser sync “spoiled” me, with it’s ability to sync passwords, history, cookies etc.
By bobisimo on Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
Thank you for the effort you are putting forth toward this endeavor. I’d been going to the Google group every few days expecting I’d see an answer there (which is how I found your site). Apparently, Google doesn’t pay as much attention to their own groups. Anyway, my fingers are crossed on this one. Weave and Foxmarks don’t seem to do what I want (not yet, anyway): synchronize bookmarks *and* sync active tabs (especially, but also), history, cookies, and passwords.
Let’s hope Google gets back to you before Firefox 3 is shipped.
By jeroen020 on Apr 15, 2008 | Reply
I’m totally with you guys. Got a mac and a few PC’s and was totally spoiled. FF2 was slow on the mac though, my brother recommened I’d give FF3b a go - and it’s much more responsive, less of a resource hog. However I miss Google Browser Sync, so much so that I’m now thinking of switching back to FF2 just for this feature. But I don’t want to make that choice!
Google’s response so far is not very encouraging - how about I click on a 100 google ads. If everybody here does that, Google makes enough to pay for an engineer to spend a couple of days to port this brilliant extension to FF3 right?
By Yeah Right on Apr 18, 2008 | Reply
How about if we all threaten to never click on a Google-hosted Ad every again until we get our GBS for FF3?
By Gustavo on Apr 19, 2008 | Reply
Same here! Firefox 3 has zoom and I cant go back to 2 just because GB Sync doesnt work on 3
I’ll be waiting for such an incredible extension, Im really tired of using notepad to carry on most of my urls user/pass settings 
By Ercin EKER on Apr 22, 2008 | Reply
Soo… Any other news?
By Simon on Apr 22, 2008 | Reply
Guess what’s the first hit when I’m searching for “Google browser sync Firefox beta 3″ …This. Come on Google, pull your collective finger out and get it done!
By Midwinter on Apr 22, 2008 | Reply
Ercin - I’ve heard nothing back from Google’s press team since they said they were looking into it. I’ll give them a little reminder.
Simon - I did mention that to them!
By oo on Apr 25, 2008 | Reply
Just switched to FF3b5 and noticed that Browser Sync doesn’t work anymore. It forces me to go back to FF2 unfortunately. What a shame that the Google devs haven’t prepared an update yet
I suggest that they post the source code and let us do their work.
By Roger on Apr 25, 2008 | Reply
We want it now! Ubuntu 8.04 brings FF3 which is really cool, but we need google sync bookmarks… Otherwise I will use another app!
By Matt on Apr 26, 2008 | Reply
I wish id googled this 4 hours ago as ive been messing around with max version overides to see if i can get it working. On the plus side its been noted though i think we all need to mail Google about it to keep it on there radar
By Ben on Apr 27, 2008 | Reply
I also emailed the Google Browser sync address and had no response (I emailed a few weeks ago). Has anyone else heard much back from them?
By Matt Moore on Apr 27, 2008 | Reply
I think it may be time to give up on GBS and move onto Weave. Of course, we won’t know for sure about GBS until FF3 is out of beta, but the fact that they don’t reply at all is a very bad sign.
Weave is working pretty well for me, and I would bet it has full support for cookies and passwords soon. At that point it will be a full replacement.
And if they manage to make it sync add-ons, too, it’ll be teh awesome. Right now I use a weird combo of FolderShare and SyncToy to take care of that.
By Max Rathbone on Apr 29, 2008 | Reply
I decided to create an online petition. I hope to garner enough signatures and momentum with it that will allow us to show Google how many of us really need Google Sync. Please consider posting this petition URL to any blog, article, forum, or email that you send to spread the word.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/googlebrowsersyncff3/
By Brendt Peeters on May 3, 2008 | Reply
I am going to give Google at least until FF3 get’s itself out of beta.
I love Google Browser Sync, but I can’t wait for the beauty that FF3 brings to the table.
Thanks for taking the time to keep us updated! Hopefully something comes about!
By corep.dk on May 3, 2008 | Reply
same here - love browser sync hope they will update asap even though ff3 is still beta
By UncleZeiv on May 7, 2008 | Reply
same here… this is preventing me to update towards the latest ubuntu. I’m looking for alternatives.
Updating the extension shouldn’t be *that* difficult, it’s a matter of using a different API… any developer would like to try? The code is available, just open the .xpi…
By Aaron on May 7, 2008 | Reply
I add my voice in the demand for google browser sync for ff3.
By Ryan on May 9, 2008 | Reply
Google needs to address this issue
By keith on May 15, 2008 | Reply
Please bring back my google sync
By bobisimo on May 17, 2008 | Reply
Firefox 3 RC1 is now out and still no word from Google about updates - though I expect we’re not likely to hear anything anytime soon. I’d expect if they say anything, it’d be post-release, i.e. June. And even if we don’t hear anything by then, the next big Weave release will be in June…
By Rob O on May 17, 2008 | Reply
Thanks for going through the trouble to alert google to our pleas. Please continue to keep us updated!
By viknet on May 20, 2008 | Reply
I too, Kudos for alerting google and please update for all new info you might have.
Viknet
By Cros on May 22, 2008 | Reply
I too want GBS for FF3
By G Johnson on May 26, 2008 | Reply
On a related note, http://documents.google.com/support/bin/answer.py?answer=37560
says with respect to Google Docs that, “Firefox 3 will be fully supported once it has a full launch.”
By Nelson Minar on May 28, 2008 | Reply
Thanks for keeping the flame alive. I posted my own little hopeful note at http://www.somebits.com/weblog/tech/google-browser-sync-on-firefox-3.html
By Brad on May 28, 2008 | Reply
Just another ditto from here. Please update Google Browser Sync for Firefox 3.
By Bob McCabe on May 28, 2008 | Reply
http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2008/05/happy-birthday-google-gears.html
Google working to convert other software to work with Firefox 3. And they’re also saying google docs will start working with Firefox 3 by launch. So… good news for browser sync and toolbar?
By Bhagwad Jal Park on May 29, 2008 | Reply
I need this extension too! Please keep me updated on this one.
Bhagwad Jal Park
By Diaa on May 29, 2008 | Reply
Pleaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaase Update Google Sync ..
By Cristiano on May 29, 2008 | Reply
If google doesn´t have interest to update Google Sync why don’t they just open the source code for community? So someone else can do that!!!
PLEASE MAKE GOOGLE SYNC OPEN SOURCE!
By Tom on May 29, 2008 | Reply
I use this everyday. If this isn’t ported over I will be so sad. but trying to be optimistic, maybe there are viable firefox extensions that can replace some of the functionality like foxmarks. but I wouldn’t really trust my passwords and whatnot with any other company besides Google sync.
It’s kind of scary to think that they have ALL OF MY LOGIN INFORMATION to all my sites stored over there on some server on some project that they just forgot about?! SCARY!
By Wayne on May 30, 2008 | Reply
Foxmarks Browser Synchronizer just was made compatible with FF3.
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/2410
By yankie on May 30, 2008 | Reply
Please Almighty GOOGLE, please bring GBS back to life~~
By dave on May 30, 2008 | Reply
Even with the first RC out Firefox is still in beta. Most companies have a policy not to release preliminary software to the mass market. I don’t think that Google is an exception here.
There will be no new version of Google Browser Sync until Firefox 3 is finalized.
However the huge demand for a plug-in like this should definitely be noted at the Googleplex.
By Seanpennnorelation on May 30, 2008 | Reply
I have made an appeal to some connections at Mozilla. From what I understand, the folks at Mozilla are quite familiar with the Google team and they frequently cross pollinate.
With Mozilla’s push to break records for most downloaded software on the release date of Firefox 3, it stands to reason that they would avoid anything that may discourage users from making the switch right away. Google Browser Sync is pretty high up on the list.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed that Google is able free up the resources to give Browser Sync the attention it deserves.
By Kolli on May 30, 2008 | Reply
I’ve been trying out Weave for FF3. Works great, I’m not missing Google Browser Sync at all!
Try it out: https://services.mozilla.com/
By David Chartier on May 31, 2008 | Reply
I’m beginning to think the public perception of the “beta” process for software may have gotten skewed in recent years.
Software goes into beta so people can help test it, not rely on it. When software is in beta, things change. Fundamental architecture changes, features change, the way things are done in and outside the app changes.
Applications like Firefox, as you all know, have a thriving third party community. That’s half the appeal of Firefox, right?
But when things keep changing during a beta period, we can’t expect third parties, even one as large as Google, to keep pace with a product while it’s in beta. Google, obviously, is waiting for Firefox 3 to officially be released out of beta.
Look at an even larger market, say Adobe’s Creative Suite for Windows and Mac OS X. Both OSes had beta periods where the software was available at least to developers, if not the general public (as was the case with Vista). But Adobe wasn’t ready with CS3 updates the day that Vista or Mac OS X Leopard landed, it took them some time because they can’t be bothered to keep up with every tiny or significant decision Microsoft and Apple made during the OS development phase. They had to wait for rules, features, and architecture to get finalized before updating their software for the new version.
Firefox 3 is a beta, and we need to treat it as such. Add-on developers can’t be expected to waste their time to keep up with every tiny or significant change Mozilla makes before officially releasing the new version.
Just wait, Google Browser Sync is undoubtedly coming to Firefox 3. While Firefox is a beta, however, we’ll just have to live without gSync or simply not use Firefox 3 until it comes out of the beta testing phase.
By Pat Wallwork on Jun 2, 2008 | Reply
I signed that petition and I am anxiously awaiting googles support for FF3. Hopefully it will come soon. In the meantime, I am trying out weave.
Not sure if google cares or not, but I suspect many like myself will give weave a whirl too, and if it works nearly as good as sync did, we may not come back to sync.
Something to keep in mind over there…
By Pat Wallwork on Jun 3, 2008 | Reply
Just an update. I’ve installed weave yesterday and it’s been working problem free, syncing between 4 computers for me.
I never even heard about it until I was reading the comments in this blog, and now I’ve decided I’m not going back to google sync. Weave is awesome!
By Alvin on Jun 4, 2008 | Reply
Yea, google really do need to update the tool … if not make it open source and let us update it!
By Jigar Shah on Jun 6, 2008 | Reply
use fox marks…Weaves…They are good enough…Why Google
?
By John Hamlin on Jun 6, 2008 | Reply
I upgraded to FF3 before I was aware of this major limitation. Despit all the advantages of FF3, I uninstalled it and went back to FF2 in order to retain Googly Sync.
By bobisimo on Jun 7, 2008 | Reply
Firefox is *not* in beta. It’s in the release candidate stage. That means they consider the program final/finished/done/complete, and are undergoing final testing to ensure that they’re right and that it meets quality. Any RC can turn into final code. Betas cannot because they are known by the developers to be incomplete or still containing blocking bugs.
At this stage, it should be *very* safe for Google to implement updates.
That’s why Google really should make some kind of announcement about whether they intend to make their programs work with Firefox 3. I mean, seriously - how many official blogs does Google have? They talk about every little thing with the community and have built such a relationship with the community. And yet they can’t take the two minutes to confirm or deny that they are working on Firefox 3 compatibility in relation to a few of their (seemingly abandoned) programs?
That said, I decided to try Weave as well. It only works on Firefox 3, which is one problem (one of my two computers is still using Google browser sync and Firefox 2 and I don’t want to change that). It doesn’t yet include even beta support for syncing open tabs, which is another. But it generally seems to work well, not slow my system down or cause hangs, and looks like it could be a great program - despite being in such an early, early stage of development.
By Alan Wu on Jun 9, 2008 | Reply
Given the tremendous support to see Google Browser Sync ported to Firefox 3, has someone tried getting a big tech blog like Engadget or Gizmodo to do a story on this effort? Perhaps if it got some broader attention via one of those blogs Google might start to pay attention?
By Tom on Jun 9, 2008 | Reply
We should try and get lifehacker to give this campaign a mention - browser sync is their kind of tool and they have contacts with google.
By Dave Walden on Jun 10, 2008 | Reply
I dumped Google Browser Sync and replaced it with Weave. It does everything that GBS did. It is available at Mozilla Labs.
Create your account:
——————–
https://services.mozilla.com/
Download the extension:
———————–
http://people.mozilla.com/~cbeard/weave/dist/latest-weave.xpi
By Joe Wrigg on Jun 12, 2008 | Reply
I use Firefox 2 only because of “Browser Sync” . No GBS No FF3.
By etank on Jun 12, 2008 | Reply
I am itching to install FF3 but like someone said above I won’t do it without the browser sync addon.
By Voyagerfan5761 on Jun 13, 2008 | Reply
Browser Sync has been officially killed off. Google Operating System picked it up from Lifehacker, which got it from a comment on another post. It’s a real bummer.
By Lee Jones on Jun 13, 2008 | Reply
It looks like Mozilla Labs Weave 0.2 will perform the same functions. See http://labs.mozilla.com/2008/06/weave-status-update/
By bobisimo on Jun 13, 2008 | Reply
Bummer.
Oh well, thanks for this post and the efforts everyone made.
By Erik on Jun 14, 2008 | Reply
Bummer indeed. Thanks for the try.
“Do no evil” … I guess they aren’t being evil here. Just not particularly “good” either.
They wrote that the team has moved on. So Google can’t drum up another team to put this together?? How long would it take? Too bad they don’t have auditorium-sized rooms filled with money to use in the effort to get someone on this; oh wait, that’s right. They do.
By Goutham on Jun 16, 2008 | Reply
Google - Dont do this to GBS. Save GBS
By Gabriel Resende on Jun 16, 2008 | Reply
Update please!
By Luke on Jun 17, 2008 | Reply
Google, update Browser Sync for Firefox 3.
By Zenrhe on Jun 17, 2008 | Reply
I just discovered this issue now that its the official Firefox 3 download day.
I found an article on LifeHacker which also states that they wont be making GBS for it.
http://lifehacker.com/396112/google-browser-sync-discontinued-no-firefox-3-support
By Me on Jun 17, 2008 | Reply
Just found out about this after I installed FF3 - damn now I have to uninstall FF3 cuz I really need it.
By Peter Evans on Jun 17, 2008 | Reply
A non-issue. Google sync was used by a insignificant minority of the web community, which is only a tiny portion of Googles potential customers. Google makes no money from it, and gets no returns for spending the few thousand dollars it takes from porting it. If it had meaningful application to, say, “Google Phone” sales, then it might be worth doing, providing the “webbers” contributed 150% of the cost via direct monthly payment using a valid credit card and a long-term contract. Otherwise, they would be wasting there time providing a minor product for a tiny segment.
FACT.
By edme on Jun 18, 2008 | Reply
First time to check if google browser sync is compatible with FF3, unfortunately, it is still not compatible.
I have to hold off FF3 since I dont like doing the bookmark syncing manually.
I hope google will help out ASAP.
Go google browser sync!!!!
By Minal on Jun 18, 2008 | Reply
Not having the browser sync on FF3 is making me re-consider FF3.
So far I have been very convinced and satisfied with FF3, but I still love the convinence of being able to save bookmarks/passwords on my laptop and get it on my work pc with no pain.
I just don’t think FF3 is that big a leap that I could part with browser sync.
By Sven on Jun 18, 2008 | Reply
By killing development AND not releasing the code into public domain, Google is very much doing EVIL.
By Richard on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
I need a Google Sync replacement for Firefox 3!
I have 4 computers I use regularly. I want to use FF3 but without Google Sync support, I can’t.
Thanks!
By havocnl on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
Mozilla is developing their own Google Browser Sync (and more) replacement:
see http://labs.mozilla.com/featured-projects/#weave
Weave can call remote services, in the test versions now, bookmarks, history, password, cookies, saved forms can be synched to multiple computers.
Developed my the Firefox builders i think this will be the true Google Browser Sync replacement!
By samwyse on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
The source for the client side has always been available; after all the extension is written in javascript. The changes to the FF3 API would probably mean that the server code would need substantial rewrites on top of changes needed for a different back-end, so I’m not sure that source would be that useful anyway. I see two possibilities: (1) Weave picks up additional capabilities to equal Browser Sync, and/or (2) someone takes over GBS and re-writes it to use GDrive/Googlepages/etc or Amazon’s S3 (and wouldn’t that be embarassing for Google).
By Allen on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
Stupid stupid me for not checking first! Google Browser Sync is awesome and now I miss it terribly!
By leo on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
Google does have financial interest…
FF is responsible for driving traffic to Google. The two are tied at the hip.
I can’t do without GBS.
Bye bye FF3…
By Jimmy-Cap on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
Peter Evans,
Nobody likes to be called insignificant. And if Google was all about the money, why did they bother to write the app in the first place and why doesn’t someone do it now? My guess is that the designer doesn’t have the time or is no longer with Google.
By Rui Branco on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
Same here
By Jeff on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
I really long for Google Browser Sync in Firefox 3.
By Eugen on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
The reasons why other bookmark and history synchronizers would not have the same popularity is privacy issues(yes I decided to use google toolbar and browser sync to keep by history, but I doubt I will trust other party with that information and keep it secure). My decision will be: keep FF2 with BrowserSync and forget about FF3
By K on Jun 19, 2008 | Reply
Ditto about GBS. I’m not a techie and I love that add-on. Hope something happens soon!
By Douglas on Jun 20, 2008 | Reply
I need this Google Browser Sync for Firefox 3!!
By Nate on Jun 20, 2008 | Reply
I’m waiting to upgrade until the new google sync comes out.
it is too valuable.
By Nick on Jun 21, 2008 | Reply
It’d be a shame if google would drop this project… but if you guys can come up whith something just as good, or even better, then please do so!
By Froggus on Jun 21, 2008 | Reply
I would like to add my voice to support GBS in FF3
By anonymous coward on Jun 22, 2008 | Reply
I would like to add my vote to this petition!
By 6footplus on Jun 22, 2008 | Reply
I need Google Browser Sync for Firefox 3 too!
By Wayne Ruffner on Jun 22, 2008 | Reply
I too find this extension close to essential.
I do wish I could turn off the “reopen” feature, though - I usually want to open new things and the reopen hijacks focus, so I’d like it better if that was an option.
But still, I need it back!
By Toma on Jun 23, 2008 | Reply
I want my Google Browser sync back in Firefox 3 !!! :’(
Pl-ea-se Mr Google be kind or I will cry endlessly (snif snif).
By Jordan Austin on Jun 23, 2008 | Reply
Where is our Google Browser Sync!!!
By tripppy on Jun 23, 2008 | Reply
GBS, is a life saver. GBS allows me to research on a laptop and read on the bigger PC/screen.
what people dont get is it sync’s the last pages opened in FF. not just some terrible bookmarks sync, which if i wanted i could export/import.
GBS, if really does get discontinued will annoy the heck out of me. i hope it sticks around with FF2, whats FF3 like on old hardware?
my 2c
By Roger on Jun 23, 2008 | Reply
YES, WE NEED GOOGLE BROWSER SYNC , WE NEED IT !!!
By J. Gohil on Jun 24, 2008 | Reply
Google browser sync rocks - definitely need it for FF3.
By Memo on Jun 24, 2008 | Reply
We needs it. We wants it. We love it.
That was one of the greatest extensions. Lucky me that i upgraded my existing Firefox installation instead of installing from scratch. This way i was able to keep all my bookmarks cookies and password settings. As someone above said, it is a life saver. We would love to have it updated for Firefox 3.x
By Mike on Jun 24, 2008 | Reply
I’m finding Weave simply doesn’t work on more than one computer (which kinda kills the point). I get what looks like a memory leak on FF3 when Weave is enabled. I am at the point of moving back to FF2 and Browser Sync. Gutted that it is being discontinued.
By JH on Jun 24, 2008 | Reply
@Peter Evans
You said “if it had meaningful application to, say, “Google Phone” sales, then it might be worth doing..” and some other crap.
Android runs a version of Gecko (which is Firefox moron). They will have to have a sync service for Android to be remotely useful.
Google will update GBS eventually.
I still believe…
By Loïc G. on Jun 24, 2008 | Reply
Like other people, I don’t change definitely to FF3 because GBS isn’t compatible. And GBS is perfect to me, because it’s totally automatic and invisible. I hope GBS will be upgraded or maybe an other similar add-on will be made.
By Loïc G. on Jun 24, 2008 | Reply
Weave add-on? Ohoh I will try it !
By Darryl Wright on Jun 24, 2008 | Reply
I think opening up the software is a great idea. If Google won’t do it anymore, let the public do it. Or, as you suggested, if Google won’t open it - why not write and maintain an open source project to do the same thing. Of course, someone would have to host it.
Do it!
By snowdizx on Jun 24, 2008 | Reply
I would absolutely be interested in a GBS-like plugin for FF3, to me that’s the ONLY shortcoming of FF3
-snowdizx
By Jimdog on Jun 25, 2008 | Reply
Didn’t see that anyone had picked this up yet, but looks like Google, has opened it up for development. X prize for first person to get it woking on FF3?
http://arstechnica.com/journals/linux.ars/2008/06/24/google-browser-sync-for-firefox-goes-open-source
By Pat Wallwork on Jun 25, 2008 | Reply
There is a lot of posts here of people stating that they are holding off on upgrading to ff3 because they need gbs. I don’t get this!
Weave is incredible, and actually works better than GBS did IMO. GBS became a little wonky if you had multiple ff’s open simultaneously, and google said it did not support this (so it’s not a bug).
However, weave supports this along with everything else GBS does. I can have my laptop and desktop open, both with an instance of FF running, and syncing works the way you expect it too.
I thought I would miss GBS but not now. And someone else stated that they can’t be sure they would trust another server besides google for doing this…well weave is create at mozilla labs, the same people who create Firefox. If you can’t trust them, why are you even running FF? lol
Give weave a try. I think most everyone will find the same results I did…goodbye GBS, and thank you Mozilla
By Jeff on Jun 25, 2008 | Reply
I would completely pay for a GBS update. Having used GBS in FF2 and now updating to FF3, I REALLY need it. Its by far *the* best addon for firefox out there. Please update it for FF3, I’ll buy it!
By Tom on Jun 26, 2008 | Reply
Not having Google Browser Sync is a FF3 deal breaker for me. I have to find an alternative before I switch or else fundamentally change my strategy. To be honest, I didn’t see how Google was monetizing GSB and if it doesn’t bring in money I knew it was only a matter of time…
By Bbox on Jun 26, 2008 | Reply
I just took a look at the download page to see if there’d been any news and it seems it’s all over:
“Google Browser Sync is no longer available for download. Instead, to get similar functionality, we suggest using Mozilla Weave, Google Toolbar for Firefox, or Foxmarks. Support for current Google Browser Sync users will continue through 2008.”
I’m not sure about any open source news but it looks like Google are burying this one.
By Dumn on Jun 26, 2008 | Reply
Weave - not the golden solution here. Registration process is broken but doable if persistent, and when trying to install the .xpi on FF3:
“Weave 0.1.30 could not be installed because it is not compatible with Firefox 2.0.0.14)….”
So amazing that this situation came about. I’d go back to FF2, but it looks like I wouldn’t be able to download GBS…
I guess this is one of the limitations of open source - if ya ain’t payin, then who gives a crap about ya???
By jessica on Jul 2, 2008 | Reply
Go here and tell them we want GBS back!
http://www.google.com/support/bin/request.py?contact_type=cf_noresponse
By Stephen on Jul 4, 2008 | Reply
We NEED a sync tool that does MORE than Weave or Foxmarks. GBS was a great tool and it’s terrible that programming on it has been stopped entirely. Please continue GBS for FF3. I’d be glad to even give a couple dollars for it. Take donations.
Somebody that can make a viable alternative that does everything GBS did would be ok too. I don’t care if it has a Google stamp on it. Synchronization in every aspect is so necessary these days.
By Chris on Jul 6, 2008 | Reply
I agree - google browser sync is awesome and FF3 really needs it!
By Marvin Straight on Jul 7, 2008 | Reply
We need Google browser sync for Firefox 3.0. Has been very useful and makes me wonder if Google is worth using, if they abandon software so easily.
By bobisimo on Jul 8, 2008 | Reply
I know everyone knows this already, but here’s the statement:
http://google-opensource.blogspot.com/2008/07/open-sourcing-browser-sync.html
By Terry Conroy on Jul 24, 2008 | Reply
I have been using browser sync pretty much since its inception. It is one of the best tools for Firefox ever made and is extremely invaluable to me.
I never have any less than 10-15 tabs open at any given time and need them there as I come across information that I need to read and do not want to bookmark them as my bookmarks would quickly become completely out of control. They stay open until I read them or I find them of no value any more. Moving back and forth from office or home, I can continue where I left off with ease!!
Google is really letting us down on this one. I want to use FF3 but I will not until I have no choice because GBS is my most used tool. Apparently, google has posted the GBS code as open source hoping someone will take it over. I am not a developer so I cannot even help there. I sure hope someone takes that initiative.
My 2 cents!!
By Mike on Jul 24, 2008 | Reply
Why didn’t I go check the incompatible addon list before I installed FF3 today? I have a lull at work and decided today would be a good time to upgrade to FF3. No no GBS… I am going back to FF2 because I need to have my home and work computers synced. Bad move Google…
By Ivan on Jul 31, 2008 | Reply
As most of you probably noticed, GBS was discontinued. On of the worst decisions I’ve seem google take. At least they’ve opened the source.
I don’t like standalone programming, and I also have no idea on how to code firefox extensions.
Someone out there could start maintaining GBS and add FF3 support.
Of course, since Google was reckless with its GBS users, I would suggest to change the addon name.
By jerome on Aug 26, 2008 | Reply
Yeah I agree, I use FF3, and miss Google Browser Sync so much… I tried 2 different sync extensions, but they are crap… GBS is the best!
Please bring it baaaaaaaacccckkk!
By Alias on Aug 29, 2008 | Reply
Still using FF2 because of GoogleSync
By Fred Seigneur on Aug 30, 2008 | Reply
How can I get Firefox 2 back. I loaded 3 on one of my machines and it said (after the fact) that Google Browser Sync would not work.
I figured that Google would soon have the update. But…
So, where can I go to download Firefox 2?
Thanks,
Fred
By Neoras on Sep 2, 2008 | Reply
Now we know why…
http://blogoscoped.com/archive/2008-09-01-n47.html
By Brian Chase on Sep 4, 2008 | Reply
Browser Sync is on my top five list of all time among the programs / tools I use and is critical to my successful sharing of data between the different computers I use, many of them behind firewalls so I can’t just sit there and get a VPN connection to them.
Please help, I want Google Browser Sync for Firefox 3.
By rtechie on Sep 4, 2008 | Reply
Google Browser Sync was discontinued because Google couldn’t figure out how to get a revenue stream out if it. Transferring all that information around is expensive in terms of Google’s bandwidth.
The plan was to somehow aggregate the information together and sell it to advertisers, ex. X number of people have bookmarked X site, X number of people visited X site at X date, etc. This is what FoxMarks does.
Apparently the data-mining proved too difficult a problem so they scrapped it.
So it’s not coming back. And if it does, it’s likely to be a feature of Chrome and it’s likely to be bookmarks only.
By todd on Sep 11, 2008 | Reply
For older FF, which i have to return to as BS doesnt work, go to
http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/all-older.html
By Jim on Sep 20, 2008 | Reply
theory: Sync was canceled due to Chrome. Ever notice when it asks for a password it goes to server: chrome.google.com.I bet it comes back in the Google browser.
By jun on Oct 25, 2008 | Reply
How or where do i get a PIN code. Its a requirement in my Browser Sync installation. Tnx.