Google tweaked the desktop version of Chrome so that background tabs take up less memory. The widely used browser will also use less power when a laptop’s battery is getting low.
The changes are coming soon to the macOS version as well as other desktop OSs.
Chrome for Mac will suck up less RAM and power
Not every Mac user browses the web with Apple’s Safari. Chrome is a popular alternative, despite Google using it to track users.
Fans of the browser should be pleased that it will take up less 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,” said Mark Chang, Chrome’s Chrome, in a blog post. “This is especially useful if you’re running other intensive applications, like editing family videos or playing games. Any inactive tabs will be reloaded when you need them.”
And the desktop version of the app will go easier on almost-empty MacBook batteries.
“When you’re browsing the Web with Chrome and your device battery level reaches 20%, Chrome will save battery by limiting background activity and visual effects for websites with animations and videos,” notes Chang.
Google says Memory Saver and Energy Saver modes will be rolled out globally over the next several weeks for macOS, Windows and ChromeOS.
Google wants Mac owners to use its browser so it can track where they go on the web so it can build profiles on them and then sell targeted adverts to companies. That’s why Google has worked hard to make Chrome at least as fast as Safari.
