Introduction

Microsoft has begun rolling out the latest beta version of its Edge browser, version 137.0.3296.16, introducing a suite of new features, AI integrations, and the removal of certain legacy tools. This update reflects Microsoft's ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience, security, and performance.

Key Features and Enhancements

AI-Powered Scareware Blocker

A significant addition in Edge 137 is the AI-driven Scareware Blocker. This feature utilizes machine learning to identify and block deceptive websites that employ scare tactics to trick users into downloading malicious software or providing personal information. By analyzing webpage content in real-time, the Scareware Blocker offers an additional layer of security against evolving online threats.

Updated Downloads UI

The Downloads interface has been reengineered using WebUI 2.0, resulting in improved performance and responsiveness. While the visual design remains consistent, users will notice faster load times and smoother interactions when managing their downloads.

Enhanced Web Platform Features

Edge 137 introduces several web platform updates, including:

  • CSS Enhancements: Support for the INLINECODE0 property, INLINECODE1 function, and INLINECODE2 and INLINECODE3 properties, providing developers with more control over styling and layout.
  • Web APIs: Implementation of the Ed25519 signature algorithm in the Web Cryptography API, JavaScript Promise Integration (JSPI) in WebAssembly, and WebAssembly branch hinting, enhancing security and performance for web applications.
  • WebGPU API: New capabilities such as binding INLINECODE4 to GPUTextureView and copying entire buffers with INLINECODE5 , offering developers more flexibility in graphics rendering.

Deprecation of Legacy Tools

To streamline the browser and reduce bloat, Microsoft has deprecated several features in Edge 137:

  • Math Solver
  • Picture Dictionary
  • Citations
  • Grammar Tools
  • Kids Mode

These tools have been removed to simplify the 'More tools' menu and improve overall user experience. Users who relied on these features may need to seek alternative solutions or extensions.

Implications and Impact

The introduction of AI-powered security features like the Scareware Blocker demonstrates Microsoft's proactive approach to user safety in an increasingly complex digital landscape. By leveraging machine learning, Edge can adapt to new threats more efficiently.

The deprecation of certain legacy tools indicates a shift towards a more streamlined browser experience, focusing on core functionalities and performance. While this may inconvenience some users, it aligns with industry trends of reducing feature bloat to enhance speed and reliability.

Technical Details

Developers should note the following technical updates in Edge 137:

  • CSS INLINECODE6 Property: Allows control over the animation of the text input caret, with values such as INLINECODE7 and INLINECODE8 .
  • CSS INLINECODE9 Function: Enables conditional logic within CSS, simplifying complex styling scenarios.
  • Ed25519 in Web Cryptography API: Provides support for the Ed25519 signature algorithm, enhancing cryptographic operations within web applications.
  • WebAssembly Enhancements: Introduction of JavaScript Promise Integration (JSPI) and branch hinting, improving performance and interoperability of WebAssembly modules.

Conclusion

Microsoft Edge 137 brings a host of improvements aimed at enhancing security, performance, and user experience. The integration of AI-driven features and the removal of underutilized tools reflect Microsoft's commitment to evolving its browser to meet modern user needs and developer expectations.

For a comprehensive list of changes and technical details, refer to the official Microsoft Edge 137 web platform release notes.