Microsoft Edge, which replaced Internet Explorer as the default Windows browser a few years ago, has continuously evolved by introducing new features and steadily increasing its market share. In fact, it has surpassed Firefox to become the second-most-popular browser on the Windows platform. Now, Edge is on the verge of introducing yet another feature that promises to enhance user convenience, particularly benefiting gamers and power users.
Microsoft is currently in the testing phase for a user-defined memory limiting feature in Edge, aiming to prevent excessive RAM usage that can potentially slow down the entire system. This new feature, discovered in the latest Edge Canary build by the trusted tipster @Leopeva64, introduces a “Resource Controls” option within Edge. The screenshot shared on X (formerly Twitter) showcases this upcoming functionality, which could greatly benefit users by allowing them to tailor Edge’s memory usage according to their preferences.
A new section on the Settings page could let you control how much RAM Edge can use, you can also choose whether this control is activated only when you are playing a game or always:https://t.co/YiCu5igL0U pic.twitter.com/pE29PI6FfR
— Leopeva64 (@Leopeva64) March 27, 2024
The upcoming feature in Microsoft Edge is designed to give users control over the browser’s RAM usage through a simple and intuitive interface. In the shared screenshot, it’s revealed that users will be able to set limits using a progress bar, which will indicate a scale from 1 to 16 if the device has 16GB of RAM. For systems with 32 or 64GB of memory, the scale will adjust accordingly to 1 to 32 or 1 to 64. Additionally, users will have the option to specify whether the browser should adhere to the chosen limit exclusively during gaming sessions or at all times.
This user-defined memory limiting feature is a significant addition to Edge’s capabilities, particularly for individuals who require optimal performance from their systems. By being able to customize the browser’s RAM consumption, users can fine-tune their browsing experience to suit their specific needs, ensuring smoother performance during resource-intensive tasks like gaming or when multitasking with various applications.
For users with older devices or systems featuring limited memory, the upcoming memory limiting feature in Microsoft Edge presents a valuable solution. By setting appropriate limits through the progress bar, users can optimize the browser’s performance to suit their hardware capabilities. However, it’s crucial to note Microsoft’s warning: selecting an excessively low limit may negatively impact Edge’s performance. To ensure a smooth browsing experience, it’s advised to choose a limit that strikes a balance between conserving memory and maintaining efficient browser operation.
Microsoft emphasizes the importance of selecting a reasonable limit that allows Edge to function smoothly while managing memory effectively. This cautionary note serves as a reminder that while the feature provides flexibility, overly restrictive settings could hinder the browser’s performance. Therefore, users are encouraged to consider their system’s specifications and intended usage when configuring the memory limit, ensuring Edge operates optimally without compromising its capabilities.
For users interested in accessing the new memory limiter feature in Microsoft Edge, the process is straightforward. Simply navigate to the Edge Settings menu, then select Performance followed by Performance Detector. Within this section, locate the toggle switch next to “Resource Controls” and activate it. Once enabled, users gain the ability to customize the memory usage limit of Microsoft Edge, allowing for a tailored browsing experience. From there, users can specify whether the browser should adhere to these limitations continuously or only during specific scenarios.
By following these steps, users can effectively manage Microsoft Edge’s memory usage to suit their preferences and system capabilities. This feature empowers users with the flexibility to optimize their browsing experience, particularly beneficial for those with older devices or systems with limited memory capacity. Whether it’s for improving overall system performance or enhancing efficiency during resource-intensive tasks, the ability to control Edge’s memory usage provides a valuable tool for users seeking a smoother and more personalized browsing experience.
It’s important to be aware that the user-defined memory limiting feature in Microsoft Edge is currently in the process of rolling out to a limited number of Edge Insiders. Therefore, even if you’re running the latest version of Edge Canary, you may not immediately see this feature on your device. Microsoft is gradually extending availability to more users over the coming days and weeks. However, there is no specific estimated time for when this feature will be released in the stable channel for all users.
As Microsoft continues to refine and test the feature with a select group of Edge Insiders, the wider user base can anticipate its availability in the near future. This staged rollout approach allows Microsoft to gather feedback and ensure the feature’s stability and compatibility across various devices and configurations. Users who are eager to utilize this functionality are encouraged to keep their Edge browser updated and watch for announcements regarding the broader release of the user-defined memory limiting feature.
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