Google Chrome’s latest update fixes a massive problem
Google Chrome is one of the best browsers, but it has always had a major memory usage problem. The problem is finally fixed in a new Chrome 110 update that promises to reduce RAM usage by up to 30% and make the browser more efficient.
Chrome is known for its speed, security, and feature drops, as well as a penchant for holding on to your precious RAM like a bunch of hoarder. Granted, Google has made strides in improving Chrome’s memory efficiency by hibernating tabs in the background, but it still struggles with that compared to Microsoft Edge or Mozilla Firefox.
Memory Save and Energy Saver, first leaked in version 108, are the latest utilities currently rolling out worldwide for Chromebook, Mac, and Windows users. The rollout is gradual, so you may not see the update on your device(s) yet.
Memory Saver is said to save up to 30% more RAM by freeing memory from inactive tabs. When the utility identifies an idle tab, it puts it into stasis, freeing up resources. If you revisit this tab, Chrome will update it as needed. (Edge browser users may already be familiar with a similar feature called Sleeping Tabs). Memory Saver isn’t an all-or-nothing feature either. Users can specify which tabs to exclude from Memory Saver, especially for websites or pages they use most often.
Energy Saver brings a common mobile functionality to the Chrome experience and is especially handy for battery-powered devices running the venerable browser. This utility is activated at 20% battery (or whenever you unplug the power source – your choice) when Energy Saver automatically turns off background activity and visual effects for websites or the browser itself (e.g. smooth scrolling and animations) restricted.
Chrome 110 is available now and adds several new features in addition to Memory Saver and Energy Saver. For example, it enables Nvidia’s upcoming RTX Video Super Resolution, which promises AI upscaling in your browser with a compatible Nvidia graphics card. You can now download Chrome 110 directly from Google or check your browser for a manual Chrome update.
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