SNACK: 3-line summary
- Google is rolling out Chrome 156 with 353 security fixes, including fixes for six flaws rated Critical.
- The desktop release covers Windows, Mac and Linux, with availability spreading over the coming days and weeks.
- Restart Chrome to apply an available update; Incognito windows will not reopen automatically.
Chrome 156 brings new desktop security fixes, but downloading the update is not the final step: the browser needs to restart before those fixes take effect.
Snackgirls react
AIKO: “Downloaded” is a fine status for a file. For a browser security fix, I’d rather see the updated version actually running.
Nea: If I end up tracing a character’s backstory from a game guide to a wiki, I’d like those tabs waiting after the restart. I might not be finished reading about that character yet.
Six flaws carry the Critical rating
Among the 353 security fixes, Google lists six flaws rated Critical. They affect Skia graphics, CSS, painting, accessibility and WebRTC real-time communication.
Five involve memory corruption; the sixth is a use-after-free flaw in accessibility. The announcement does not state that these flaws are being actively exploited.
Which builds are rolling out
Google announced the stable release on October 20, 2026. The listed builds are 156.0.8078.47/.48 for Windows and Mac, and 156.0.8078.47 for Linux.
The rollout will take place over the coming days and weeks, so the update may not be offered to every device at the same time.
Check the version, then restart
On Windows or Mac, open the three-dot menu, choose Help, then About Google Chrome. That page shows the current version and checks for updates; select Relaunch when offered to apply an available update.
On Linux, use your package manager to update Chrome, then restart the browser. Chrome reopens regular tabs and windows after a relaunch, but Incognito windows are not restored automatically—finish anything in them before restarting.
Sources and checked date: October 21, 2026
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