Some users are forced to count bytes every time they browse, thanks to data plans whose limits border on the absurd. Others struggle daily with unstable connections and poor performance. For a long time we've known that compressing data through a secondary server can increase loading speed, and that is exactly what Google offers with its official Data Saver extension, designed for Chrome.
What is Google Data Saver?
Optimizing data usage while browsing makes much more sense on mobile devices. The idea of offering unlimited plans at reasonable prices triggers an allergic reaction among Internet providers, but deep down we're convinced that they have time as their main enemy. Sooner or later, the concept of “data packages” will disappear, and until that day comes, we must defend our bytes with every tool at our disposal. Some of our readers may remember the Opera Turbo system. The idea is that a secondary server applies compression to requested data, reducing the final number of packets and speeding up the connection. Google developed a similar technology for the mobile version of Chrome, but it was this week that it reached the desktop thanks to an extension called Data Saver.
How to Use It
Using it requires no strange maneuvers. The icon that controls Data Saver's functions will appear next to the address bar, and if necessary, users can deactivate it at will with a couple of clicks. As expected, Google's remote servers will not process pages with HTTPS or those opened in an Incognito tab for security reasons. The graph represents approximately one month of activity, and the savings calculation is immediate. Users with a high-speed connection will notice that the gains are almost negligible. In fact, if your connection is fast, the ideal is to disable Data Saver, since its only effect would be adding an unnecessary link to the connection path.
Beta Status and Feedback
Google Data Saver is in beta, and it has a feedback option enabled for users to share their experiences. Most comments so far are positive, but there are notable issues with VPN connections and proxies, which are fundamental in cases of censorship or access to region-blocked content. If you think you need it, and your current connection is a real headache, Data Saver might help a bit.
