Google’s Chrome web browser isn’t yet ready for a full release, but the search giant has just launched a brand new beta version. The third beta so far, this free release promises improved performance and security, plus better support for a slew of new plugins.

Flash, Silverlight and Quicktime plugins should now be more stable on the browser, and Chrome now allows users to add words to the built-in spellchecker. Laptop touchpad scrolling is also supported for the first time.

There’s still no Mac OS or Linux versions of the software, though - although both are apparently being worked on.

Existing Chrome users will be prompted to update automatically in the next few days, but those who can’t wait can point their browser (Chrome or not) at the download page and grab the new edition now.

Out now | £Free | Google Chrome (via ReadWriteWeb)