Microsoft Edge is about to get a performance boost on Windows 10

Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge (Image credit: Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft is working on a performance boost feature for its Edge browser.
  • The feature is currently in testing for some people using Microsoft Edge Canary.
  • Performance mode "helps you optimize speed, responsiveness, memory, CPU and battery usage," according to Microsoft.

Microsoft Edge will soon have a performance mode that will help it use less memory, CPU, and battery. Performance mode is currently in testing for some Edge users on Edge Canary version 91.0.856.0. Microsoft introduces the feature in a recent Tech Community post.

The Tech Community post doesn't share many details on how the feature actually works. It states that "performance mode helps you optimize speed, responsiveness, memory, CPU and battery usage." It also adds that when you turn on performance mode, the sleeping tabs timer becomes unavailable. Apart from that, Microsoft hasn't shared much about it.

There's a good chance that performance mode works in conjunction with Edge's sleeping tabs feature. The sleeping tabs feature also helps reduce how much memory and processing power Edge uses. Since performance mode locks the sleeping tabs timer, there's a good chance the mode has sleeping tabs start after a short amount of time.

Performance mode is in a controlled rollout for Edge Canary, but you can turn it on manually if you'd like. Microsoft notes that doing so is done "at your own risk." You can use the code "--enable-features=msPerformanceModeToggle" to enable the feature.

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Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_. 

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