Rockmelt is a new browser that aims to add that social twist many users have been looking for. It’s a tough niche to fill, but Rockmelt thinks they have the right formula to make it work this time. According to Andreessen, general partner of Andreessen Horowitz, it’s just about the best thing since sliced bread:
“RockMelt is onto something huge. They’ve rethought the browser around the massive shifts in user behavior that will drive the Web over the next decade. RockMelt is the freshest, most innovative take on browsing since browsers were created. Eric and Tim have built a stellar team that will continue delivering breakthrough innovations.”
This concept should sound familiar as it’s the same thing Flock has been trying to do for years. In it’s original form, Flock was based on Firefox. Many users found it a bit too heavy for regular use. Once Chrome gained popularity, Flock ditched firefox for Chrome. With the launch of Rockmelt, Flock will definitely need to modify their marketing materials as they’re no longer the only game in town.
Rockmelt may have a head start as they are starting from scratch with a fresh perspective on how this whole social web browser thing should work. While it integrates with Twitter, Facebook, and whatever RSS feeds you decide to plug into it, it’s still the lightweight and snappy Chrome browser you might be used to.
Probably the most interesting thing about the launch of Rockmelt is that it makes me want to give Flock another try. I can’t say which is “better” just yet, but I think Rockmelt may have the edge on speed. Rockmelt is currently in a limited beta, but you can ask for an invite by connecting with them on Facebook from the Rockmelt home page. I connected last night and I’m using the browser as of this morning, so act fast.
via Engadget, GigaOM, Rockmelt