Google Tone

Google Tone

Broadcast any URL to computers within earshot.

What is Google Tone?
"Google Tone" is a unique Chrome extension that uses your computer's speakers and microphone to share URLs with nearby computers connected to the internet. It enables users to share any web page, including news, images, documents, and more. The receiving computer needs to have the Google Tone extension installed and turned ON. This innovative tool also requires users to be logged into their Google account, and its efficiency may depend on the conditions such as internet connection, noise level, and microphone capabilities.
Stats
Users: 300,000+
Version: 2.0.7 (Last updated: 2023-11-09)
Creation date: 2016-06-28
Risk impact: Very high risk impact
Risk likelihood: Very low risk likelihood
Manifest version: 2
Permissions:
  • activeTab
  • audioCapture
  • cookies
  • contextMenus
  • idle
  • notifications
  • storage
  • tabs
  • https://accounts.google.com/*
  • https://clients1.google.com/*
  • See more
Size: 1.09M
Stats date:

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Summary
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Google Tone turns on your computer's microphone (while the extension is on) and uses your computer's speakers to exchange URLs with nearby computers connected to the Internet. You can use Google Tone to send the URL for any web page, including news stories, pictures, documents, blog posts, products, YouTube videos, recipes—even search results. Any computer within earshot (including over a phone or Hangout) that also has the Google Tone extension installed and turned ON can receive a Google Tone notification.

You need to be logged into your Google account to use Google Tone, and your Google profile name and picture will be displayed with the URL in a Google Tone notification.

To receive a URL with Google Tone, Chrome needs to keep your microphone on. Google Tone may not work in loud spaces, over a distance, with a poor Internet connection, or on computers without a microphone or with a microphone incapable of detecting sound broadcast by Google Tone.

By installing Google Tone, you agree to the Google Terms of Service and Privacy Policy at https://www.google.com/intl/en/policies/. Google Tone collects anonymous usage data in accordance with Google’s Privacy Policy.

User reviews
User reviews summary
These summaries are automatically generated weekly using AI based on recent user reviews. Chrome Web Store does not verify user reviews, so some user reviews may be inaccurate, spammy, or outdated.
Pros
  • Innovative concept
  • Useful for quickly sharing URLs
  • Some users find it excellent and love it
Cons
  • Issues with the extension not working ('Tone couldn't hear itself')
  • Some users are uncomfortable with the constant listening feature
  • Lack of updates and improvements
  • High CPU usage reported in some cases
  • Issues with compatibility on different devices (e.g., school Chromebooks and Androids)
Most mentioned
  • Tone couldn't hear itself issue
  • Concerns about privacy and constant listening
  • Request for manual activation control
  • Lack of updates or bug fixes
  • Desire for smartphone compatibility
Recent reviews
I like this extension, it feels like the future. It's also a creative use of technology, kind of like it was created "just to be creative" I love that Google are developing technology that is re-inventing our world but also creating things that are fun and playful.
by David Rivers David Rivers, 2020-04-02

Even though it makes an earpiercing and deafening sound, it works efficiently and nice. The kids keep abusing it, though.
by A Google user, 2019-03-15

This app is a funny way to troll my friends and for them to troll me (only a little). Although we sometimes use it for stupid things like trapping eachother on tabs, its very useful for facebook and sharing youtube videos.
by A Google user, 2019-03-05
View all user reviews
Safety
Risk impact

Google Tone is very risky to use and it requires a lot of sensitive permissions. Avoid installing this extension unless you absolutely trust this publisher.

Risk likelihood

Google Tone has earned a good reputation and can be trusted.

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Promo images
Google Tone small promo image
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