Microsoft Edge’s Settings is becoming more like Google Chrome on Windows 11
March 7, 2025
Microsoft has embarked on a journey to enhance user experience in its Edge browser by refining the settings page in the Edge Canary version. This initiative follows the addition of numerous features that have rendered the settings page increasingly crowded, leaving users feeling overwhelmed by the myriad of toggles and options available.
In the current stable version, the settings page is organized through a hamburger menu that categorizes various settings. Each selection leads to a dedicated settings page filled with multiple toggles and options, often requiring extensive scrolling to locate specific features. This clutter can disrupt the browsing experience, particularly when users seek to make adjustments.
Fortunately, Microsoft has taken significant steps to streamline the settings interface, implementing the following enhancements:
The Settings hamburger menu has been simplified, with components such as Copilot and Sidebar settings, Share, copy and paste, Cookies and Site permissions, Family Safety, Printers, Phone, and other devices relocated to separate pages.
The landing page for settings now features quick-access rectangular buttons, allowing users to navigate directly to frequently used sections.
Additionally, settings pages that previously contained numerous sub-settings now include their own quick access buttons for easier navigation.
Sub-settings will no longer expand by default; instead, they are presented as a clickable list reminiscent of a table of contents. Clicking on these will direct users to a clean and compact separate page, facilitating smoother transitions between different settings.
While this revamped Settings UI marks a significant improvement, it may pose a challenge for some users who have grown accustomed to the previous layout. Notably, Google Chrome’s settings interface shares similarities, and many users have expressed satisfaction with that experience, suggesting that Microsoft has drawn inspiration from its competitor’s approach.
Darker dark mode
In addition to the settings overhaul, Microsoft is also experimenting with a darker dark mode, which offers a deeper shade compared to the existing stable version. This enhancement aims to alleviate eye strain during late-night work sessions and contribute to reduced power consumption.
Moreover, Microsoft is testing an AI History Search feature alongside security-related improvements. This innovative tool will assist users in locating accurate information even if they cannot recall the exact website name or the date of their visit.
What are your thoughts on these developments? We welcome your feedback in the comments below.
Microsoft Edge’s Settings is becoming more like Google Chrome on Windows 11
Microsoft has embarked on a journey to enhance user experience in its Edge browser by refining the settings page in the Edge Canary version. This initiative follows the addition of numerous features that have rendered the settings page increasingly crowded, leaving users feeling overwhelmed by the myriad of toggles and options available.
In the current stable version, the settings page is organized through a hamburger menu that categorizes various settings. Each selection leads to a dedicated settings page filled with multiple toggles and options, often requiring extensive scrolling to locate specific features. This clutter can disrupt the browsing experience, particularly when users seek to make adjustments.
Fortunately, Microsoft has taken significant steps to streamline the settings interface, implementing the following enhancements:
While this revamped Settings UI marks a significant improvement, it may pose a challenge for some users who have grown accustomed to the previous layout. Notably, Google Chrome’s settings interface shares similarities, and many users have expressed satisfaction with that experience, suggesting that Microsoft has drawn inspiration from its competitor’s approach.
Darker dark mode
In addition to the settings overhaul, Microsoft is also experimenting with a darker dark mode, which offers a deeper shade compared to the existing stable version. This enhancement aims to alleviate eye strain during late-night work sessions and contribute to reduced power consumption.
Moreover, Microsoft is testing an AI History Search feature alongside security-related improvements. This innovative tool will assist users in locating accurate information even if they cannot recall the exact website name or the date of their visit.
What are your thoughts on these developments? We welcome your feedback in the comments below.