Google has been granted a patent that covers the synchronization of browser specific user data via a web service. The feature is currently used in Google Chrome and is also making its way in Mozilla’s Firefox 4 and Firefox Home.

Described as a “Method and system for transferring web browser data between web browsers”, the patent describes the general approach of transferring application-specific data between applications, and especially the way how web browser data is exchanged between web browsers. Google refers to data as “bookmarks, security settings, general settings, links to pages visited by a user, a home page, cookie settings, user interface (UI) elements (e.g., toolbar positions and visibility), etc.”

Google’s patent describes essentially five components: two separate client devices with installed web browser that are capable of importing and exporting browser settings and data, processing logic that can translate and store the settings in a binary or XML format, a cloud scenario that indirectly connects the two devices as well as a server that connects to the cloud and stores browser settings. There are several user scenarios, including user-triggered storage and export/import of browser settings, automated import/export as well as complete or partial import/export of settings. The patent discusses both local and offsite storage of data: “The data store may reside on the same client device as the target web browser, on the client device hosting the source web browser, or on a server.“

Google also describes the processing logic that imports and exports the data and mentions that it could be part of a PC, a tablet PC, a set-top-box, a PDA, a cellular phone, a web appliance, a network router, a switch or bridge or “any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine.”

The Google patent is very general in its nature and covers virtual all bases as far as browser data sync with the cloud is affected. Mozilla is the most obvious company affected immediately, especially since the company today announced its Firefox Home roadmap, a product whose future depends on the capability to sync data with the cloud. Mozilla describes its Home App as:

“Firefox Home is a free cloud-based application that lets you access your Firefox desktop history, bookmarks and tabs on your iPhone. Want to pull up that funny video you were watching just before you left home? Open Firefox Home and your web history is right there. Forgot to print out directions to the restaurant before leaving work? Firefox Home gives you instant access to your desktop tabs.”

As possible future features, Mozilla mentioned:

Synchronize passwords to your phone so you don’t have to type them in anymore.
Better integrate with new iOS4 features and other native applications (such as Youtube, Maps, Mobile Safari etc.)
Bring other Firefox customizations such as search engine preferences.
Bring your Firefox  Panorama settings and tab groups to your phone.
Some of our more experimental features will allow you to easily share links, reviews and comments with your friends on
Twitter, Facebook or other social networks directly from Firefox Home.
Build the ability to provide feedback and get help with any issues directly from within Firefox Home.

So, did Google just royally screw Mozilla? Unlikely. There is a friendly partnership in place right now, but there is no doubt that the two are competing with each other. It is common sense that Mozilla will at least inquire at Google what this patent will mean for Mozilla.

This feature may have a greater meaning for Microsoft and its IE9. Cloud storage and sync were previously possible via Windows Live Sync, which is now called Windows Live Mesh. While Mesh extends much further than Google’s patent and provides features for collaboration and general data storage, the syncing feature is affected as well. It is always a question whether certain patents are enforced and how they are enforced, but Google has clearly an interesting feature here that Microsoft will have to use in a much more aggressive way as well, especially, if it wants to use data sync between its IE9 browser and potential mobile and CE derivates.

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