Microsoft is empowering users with greater control over their data in the latest Microsoft Edge Canary release. This experimental version introduces several features that allow users to manage their data usage and privacy more effectively.

Background

Microsoft Edge Canary is a pre-release version of the Edge browser, updated daily with the latest features and improvements. It serves as a testing ground for new functionalities before they are rolled out to the stable version. The recent updates focus on providing users with enhanced control over their data, aligning with Microsoft's commitment to user privacy and customization.

New Data Control Features

Restricting Updates on Metered Connections

Users can now prevent Edge from downloading updates over metered connections, such as cellular networks. This feature helps manage data usage and avoid unexpected charges. To enable or disable this setting:

  1. Open Microsoft Edge Canary.
  2. Click on the three dots in the top-right corner.
  3. Navigate to Help & Feedback > About Microsoft Edge.
  4. Toggle "Download Updates over metered connections" to your preference.

This option utilizes Windows 10's metered connection settings to determine if the current network is metered. (neowin.net)

Resetting Sync Data

Edge Canary now allows users to reset their sync data, which includes history, favorites, and autofill information. This is particularly useful if you're experiencing syncing issues or want to start fresh. To reset sync data:

  1. Open Microsoft Edge Canary.
  2. Click on the three dots in the top-right corner.
  3. Go to Settings > Profiles > Sync.
  4. Scroll down and click on 'Reset Sync.'
  5. Confirm by clicking 'Reset.'

This feature is currently available in the Canary and Dev channels, with plans to extend it to the Beta channel soon. (neowin.net)

Linking to Microsoft Family Group Settings

A new Family Safety section has been added to Edge Canary's settings, linking directly to the Microsoft Family dashboard. This integration allows users to manage family safety settings, such as content restrictions, screen time limits, and spending monitoring, all from within the browser. (windowscentral.com)

Implications and Impact

These enhancements reflect Microsoft's ongoing efforts to prioritize user control and privacy. By offering granular control over data usage and synchronization, users can tailor their browsing experience to their needs, especially in scenarios involving metered connections or family management.

Technical Details

  • Restricting Updates on Metered Connections: This feature leverages Windows 10's metered connection settings to determine if the current network is metered. Users can enable or disable the option to download updates over metered connections through Edge's settings.
  • Resetting Sync Data: Users can reset their sync data by navigating to Settings > Profiles > Sync in Edge Canary. This action clears synced data across devices, which can be useful for troubleshooting or starting fresh.
  • Family Safety Integration: The Family Safety section in Edge Canary's settings provides a direct link to the Microsoft Family dashboard, enabling users to manage family safety settings without leaving the browser.

Conclusion

The latest Microsoft Edge Canary release introduces features that enhance user control over data usage and privacy. By allowing users to manage updates over metered connections, reset sync data, and access family safety settings, Microsoft continues to empower users to customize their browsing experience.

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