The Speed Boost Microsoft is Giving to Edge Browser Interface

Microsoft has long been battling the issue of browser bloat, but now the tech giant is taking a new approach to solve this problem. Instead of reducing features, Microsoft is focusing on speeding up the Edge browser interface to provide users with a more responsive experience.

One of the key improvements Microsoft has made is to the Browser Essentials menu, which displays information about Edge’s performance. This menu is now 42 percent faster, thanks to a WebUI 2.0 architecture migration. The speed increase is significant, especially when compared to the previous performance of the menu using React and WebUI with Javascript.

Improved Performance on Low-End Devices

Microsoft has also optimized Edge for devices without solid-state drives (SSD) or with less than 8GB of RAM. The Browser Essentials menu is now 76 percent faster on these devices, offering a smoother browsing experience for users with lower-end hardware.

Speed Boost for Favorites Menu

In build 124, Microsoft has introduced a 40 percent speed improvement for Edge’s favorites menu. This upgrade aims to enhance the overall browsing experience for users who heavily rely on managing their favorite websites efficiently.

WebUI 2.0 Upgrade for Edge Features

Microsoft is not stopping at the Browser Essentials and favorites menu upgrades. The tech giant plans to give Edge’s history, downloads, and wallet features a speed boost with the WebUI 2.0 architecture. This upgrade is aimed at improving overall performance by optimizing code bundles and adopting a more modular architecture.

While the speed boost is appreciated by users who prefer Edge over other browsers, there are concerns about the number of features packed into the browser’s sidebar. With the integration of Copilot and other tools, some users believe that Edge could benefit from decluttering to ensure a smoother and more streamlined browsing experience.

Microsoft’s efforts to improve the speed and responsiveness of the Edge browser interface are commendable. The upgrades to the Browser Essentials menu, favorites menu, and upcoming WebUI 2.0 improvements showcase the company’s commitment to enhancing the user experience. However, balancing feature-rich tools with a streamlined interface will be crucial for Edge to maintain its competitive edge in the browser market.