Changes in Browser AI Models and Storage Requirements
In a significant shift, Microsoft Edge has joined Google Chrome in its decision to phase out support for Manifest V2 extensions, impacting popular add-ons like uBlock Origin. This transition, while frustrating for users, is part of a broader trend in which Google is increasingly focusing on on-device AI capabilities within its browser.
Earlier this year, Google Chrome made headlines when it was revealed that the browser could automatically download a substantial AI model, approximately 4GB in size, to compatible PCs. This model facilitates local AI functionalities, allowing certain tasks to be performed directly on the device rather than relying on Google’s servers. However, the potential for Chrome to quietly consume several gigabytes of storage raised concerns among users.
In a recent update to its official Google Help documentation, Google has now indicated that Chrome requires around 20GB of free disk space before it can initiate the download of these AI models. While the exact reason for this requirement remains unspecified, it appears that the 20GB figure serves as a prerequisite for the download, rather than indicating the model’s actual storage needs.
The full requirements for Chrome are as follows:
- Network connection: Unmetered network connection.
- Minimum free disk space: 20GB (approximate).
- Sufficient device performance.
Microsoft Edge has mirrored this approach, also establishing a 20GB minimum storage requirement for downloading local AI models. The specifications for Edge include similar conditions, with an additional stipulation regarding GPU performance:
- OS: Windows 10 or 11 and macOS 13.3 or later.
- Storage: At least 20GB available on the volume containing your Edge profile.
- GPU: 5.5GB of VRAM or more.
- Network: Unlimited data plan or unmetered connection; the model will not download on a metered connection.
For users with ample storage, these requirements may seem inconsequential. However, for those with limited SSD capacity, the prospect of Chrome reserving a significant portion of available storage for AI models could necessitate closer monitoring of browser downloads.
On a positive note, users can disable on-device AI features within Chrome by navigating to Settings > System. Additionally, Microsoft Edge has implemented a safeguard: if available storage drops below 10GB, the AI model will be automatically deleted to ensure that other browser functionalities can operate smoothly.
