Microsoft continues to refine its Edge browser with features aimed at performance optimization while navigating the transition to new extension standards. Recent updates reveal the company's dual approach: enhancing gaming performance while carefully managing the inevitable shift away from older ad-blocking technology.
New Resource Controls Feature Targets Gamers
Microsoft Edge has introduced a new Resource Controls feature that allows users to limit how much RAM the browser consumes. This functionality, previously available in beta, has now rolled out to the stable build for all Windows users. The feature enables users to restrict Edge's memory usage to as little as 1GB, which can be particularly valuable while gaming or running other resource-intensive applications. Users can configure the browser to automatically implement these restrictions only during gaming sessions, ensuring optimal performance when needed without permanently hampering the browsing experience.
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| Microsoft Edge introduces new Resource Controls feature, allowing gamers to limit RAM usage for optimal performance |
Setting RAM Limits Made Simple
Accessing the new RAM limitation feature is straightforward. Users need to update Edge to the latest version through Settings > About Microsoft Edge, then navigate to System and Performance via the three-dot menu in the top-right corner. Under Manage Your Performance, users can toggle on Resource Controls and use a slider to select their preferred RAM allocation. While Edge will warn if the chosen limit might slow down browsing performance, it won't prevent users from implementing strict limitations. The browser indicates that restricting RAM to around 1GB will limit users to approximately five active tabs when browsing modern websites.
Ad Blocker Support Continues Despite Testing Confusion
Recent developments in Edge's testing channels caused some concern when the Canary version began displaying messages that certain extensions, including the popular ad blocker uBlock Origin, were no longer supported. However, this appears to be an unintentional change that occurred automatically because Edge is built on the same Chromium engine as Google Chrome, which has already implemented these restrictions. Microsoft has not officially scheduled the deprecation of Manifest V2 extensions (which include traditional ad blockers like uBlock Origin) for Edge, with the timeline still marked as To Be Determined.
The Future of Ad Blocking in Edge
While the immediate concern about losing ad-blocking capabilities has been alleviated, Microsoft is indeed working toward migrating from Manifest V2 to Manifest V3 extensions, following Google's lead. This eventual transition will affect all Chromium-based browsers and will impact how ad blockers function. A lite version of uBlock Origin compatible with Manifest V3 already exists, though it offers reduced capabilities compared to the current version. Some browser developers, like Brave, have announced plans to implement workarounds to maintain support for popular V2 extensions even after Google fully removes support, though these efforts come with no guarantees.
Microsoft's Strategic Position
By introducing gaming-focused features while delaying the controversial ad blocker restrictions, Microsoft appears to be positioning Edge as both performance-oriented and user-friendly. The new RAM limiting capability directly challenges specialized gaming browsers like Opera GX, which has offered similar functionality. Meanwhile, Microsoft's measured approach to the Manifest V2/V3 transition gives users more time with their preferred extensions while the company evaluates the best path forward. This balanced strategy could help Edge continue gaining market share against Chrome by appealing to both gamers and privacy-conscious users.