I bought a "surf chrome" domain. Posted on a domain specialty board that I tried to be as generic as possible while staying on topic without trying to break trademarks which would include the name Google. I'm going to have to roll the dice on this one but I've seen others here on this board invest in some "chrome" names over the last few days too. One person at that board suggested that even chrome could be diluting their mark if i make the site about about web browsers. What do you guys think?
Chrome itself is a real word in use in everyday language so they'd be hard pressed to stop you using it. The trademark issue comes in if you are using Chrome to refer to browsers - as that is directly leveraging off their product. So, you are safe to build a site about panel beating - but I don't think that's your intention, is it?
I searched the US gov't trademark site and Google has not yet trademarked or applied for a trademark on Chrome. Note no TM beside the Chrome logo. http://www.uspto.gov/main/profiles/acadres.htm BTW: IANAL. Proceed at your own risk.
Which is not required, although doing so can give notice. But I agree with you towards the OP to proceed at their own risk.