CIRC, a popular IRC app for Chrome and Chrome OS, has been updated with handful of minor improvements.
Version 0.6.5.4 of the streamlined open-source chat client introduces a brand new icon, adds a smattering of extra keyboard shortcuts and offers power users basic support for the /alias IRC command.
#Good or #Bad?
The new icon arriving in this release will prove divisive. The old multi-coloured and layered hash icon the app used has been remade. It’s now taller, less intricate and uses a radial golden gradient rather than a collection of four primary colours.
Is it an improvement? That’s for you to decide. One user has already filed a bug report asking for the old icon to be brought back and describing the new design as ‘awful’ — ouch!
Update: Since this article went live the developer of CIRC has said he is aware that “…the current logo is not ideal. It will change.”
Update #2: A new icon (3rd in screenshot above) was pushed out in a release on June 1, though alternatives continue to be proposed.
CIRC fans have been creating some interesting icon proposals to replace the controversial 'new' design — any faves? pic.twitter.com/1TSSmcFfI9
— OMG! CHROME! (@omgchrome) June 3, 2014
Update #3: Another new icon (added to screenshot above) was pushed out in a release on June 9.
Sidebar Switching
In a less controversial change, chat rooms and servers listed in the sidebar can be switched between ad-hoc using the Alt+Tab (forward) or Alt+Shift+Tab (backwards) keyboard shortcuts.
Previous CIRC updates have brought better padding of UI elements, a collapsable sidebar, SSL improvements and additional IRC command support.
CIRC is a free download and is available from the Chrome Web Store.