Recent Research and Trends on Google Chrome Browser: Key Challenges and Limitations

As Google Chrome maintains its position as the world's most popular browser, a growing body of research and user reports reveals persistent challenges that impact privacy, performance, and security. This comprehensive analysis examines the key issues facing Chrome in 2025 and their implications for users and organizations.

Privacy and Data Collection Concerns

Recent developments have exposed significant gaps between user privacy expectations and Chrome's actual data collection practices. The Incognito mode settlement revealed that Chrome continues to track users via IP addresses and cookies, even in private browsing sessions. Meanwhile, the Privacy Sandbox initiative faces GDPR complaints over allegedly deceptive "ad privacy feature" prompts that mislead users into enabling first-party tracking.

Apple's recent warning to iPhone users highlights growing concerns about Chrome's reliance on third-party cookies and unauthorized data harvesting. These issues raise serious questions about Chrome's commitment to user privacy and transparency.

Performance and Resource Management Issues

Chrome's performance challenges remain a significant concern for users. The browser's multi-process architecture and unoptimized extensions frequently cause memory leaks, forcing users to manually disable features or enable Memory Saver Mode. Users report Chrome consuming 6GB+ of RAM with just 10+ tabs open, highlighting inefficiencies in resource allocation compared to rivals like Edge.

Background processes and excessive tabs strain CPU resources, requiring third-party tools to mitigate performance degradation. These issues are particularly problematic on devices with limited resources, as noted in the Economic Times report on Chrome's high memory usage.

Security Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Chrome's security challenges have become increasingly sophisticated. The CVE-2025-2783 vulnerability enabled sandbox bypass and malware deployment via Chrome's Mojo IPC framework, exploited in espionage campaigns targeting Windows users. More recently, CVE-2025-4664 allowed attackers to steal sensitive query parameters via insecure referrer policies.

Kaspersky's discovery of Operation ForumTroll revealed how sophisticated attackers exploit these vulnerabilities to deliver spyware via phishing links, bypassing Chrome's sandbox without user interaction.

Regulatory and Compliance Challenges

Chrome's regulatory challenges extend beyond privacy concerns. The browser's failed Privacy Sandbox rollout and delayed cookie deprecation have drawn criticism for perpetuating cross-site tracking, violating antitrust and GDPR guidelines. Enterprise telemetry collection practices face scrutiny over data anonymization gaps, complicating compliance with CCPA and sector-specific regulations.

User Misconceptions and Design Flaws

Chrome's design choices often prioritize functionality over user privacy. The browser's default settings silently share location, search history, and form data with Google, eroding trust despite opt-out features like "Do Not Track." Safe Browsing's "Enhanced" mode can disrupt site functionality, forcing users to choose between protection and usability.

Enterprise and Cross-Platform Limitations

Enterprise users face unique challenges with Chrome. Delayed updates in Chromium-based browsers left enterprise networks vulnerable to exploits, highlighting patch management gaps. The browser's reliance on Chrome Sync risks data leaks when employees link personal Google accounts to work devices.

Looking Ahead

Chrome's challenges in 2025 reflect broader tensions between functionality, privacy, and security. While the browser remains dominant, these issues underscore the need for fundamental redesigns to align with modern user expectations and regulatory requirements. As alternatives emerge with stronger privacy and security features, Chrome's market position may face increasing pressure unless these challenges are addressed.