The latest update for Edge Chromium, version 88, is finally being released. This release adds many new features to the Windows and macOS versions of the browser, such as new password security tools, an updated look and several quality of life improvements. That’s a lot, so let’s review everything new in Edge 88 and show you how to use it.
Password generator and security monitor
The Edge 88 update notes are two great password features. The first is a random password generator that automatically creates passwords whenever you create a new account or update an existing password. Edge saves the password and automatically fills it in for you, so you don’t have to remember it.
The other new password tool is automated data breach monitoring. Edge cross-references any saved login information with the latest data breaches and will notify you if it believes that any of your accounts have been compromised.
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Both features require you to log in to the Edge with a Microsoft account and enable password synchronization at Settings> Profile> Synchronize> Passwords. To enable the password generator:
- Go to Settings> Profile> Passwords.
- Turn on “Offer to save passwords” and “Suggest strong passwords.”
Now, whenever you enter a new password, Edge will offer to create it for you. Password monitoring is automatic and applies to all logins saved on the Edge. You can find these at Settings> Profile> Passwords> Saved passwords.
Sleeping tabs
Users can now set the inactive tabs to “sleep” after a defined time. Edge stops checking hibernation guides in the background, which frees up PC memory and CPU to be used elsewhere. According Biping Computer, this reduces the memory usage of an inactive tab by 32%, on average, and the CPU usage by about 37%.
Users will see a pop-up notification suggesting they activate the drop-down tabs to reduce the use of Edge features, but you can configure the setting at Settings> System> Save resources. You can choose how long a guide needs to be inactive before going to sleep, or set specific sites to never sleep.
Sidebar search
You can now search the web without opening a new tab or leaving the page you are on. Just highlight a word and right click> Search. A sidebar will open with the search results.
New looks
Edge 88 also changes the appearance of the browser, including new “Fluent Design” interface icons that correspond to other Microsoft products and more than 24 new browser themes that you can use to customize the appearance of the Edge.
Each theme has its own color scheme and wallpaper. Wallpaper selections include illustrations of original Microsoft video game properties, such as Halo, Forza, Sea of Thieves and more; Wonder Woman 1984; and some original designs. You can view and install them from the new Edge add-ons page.
Other new features
Finally, there is a selection of minor tweaks, some of which were only available on some platforms, but are now standard for all desktop versions of Edge:
To download the update for version 88, open Edge and go to Settings> About Microsoft Edge. The download will start automatically if available, although Microsoft says it may take up to two weeks for some users to receive it.