The Chrome browser is a notorious memory and battery hog, but Google is adding two new performance settings intended to stop the software from consuming too many PC resources.
The company today introduced memory and energy saving modes for Chrome, which are rolling out now via the “m108” release.
According to Google, the memory saving mode can reduce the browser's memory use by as much as 30%. It promises to be particularly useful when you have numerous tabs open in a browser window, which can stress a computer's RAM.
“Memory Saver mode frees up memory from tabs you aren’t currently using so the active websites you’re browsing have the smoothest possible experience,” the company wrote in a blog post. “Any inactive tabs will be reloaded when you need them.”
Meanwhile, energy saving mode can be activated when your laptop’s battery level reaches 20%. It will then proceed to cut down on background processes for Chrome and limit visual effects from websites, such as animations and videos.
Both performance modes can be turned on by visiting the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of the browser selecting Settings. You’ll then find a new section labeled "Performance," where the modes can be activated.
“When these tools roll out to you, you'll be able to turn off either feature or mark your most important websites exempt from Memory Saver,” the company added.
Google says it’ll roll out the new memory and energy saving modes “over the next several weeks globally for Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS.” But for now, the company is refraining from bringing the feature to iOS and Android.