Microsoft is removing some features from its Edge browser. The latest update for the browser gets rid of five features that have been around for the past few years, including Kids Mode. This change is rolling out with version 117 of the app, which is currently in beta. The update should be available to everyone in the stable channel in a few weeks.
Microsoft’s official release notes for Edge 117 beta state that it is removing the following five features: Math Solver, Picture Dictionary, Citations, Grammar Tools, and Kids Mode. The company company says this change will improve the end-user experience and simplify the in-app menus. While that sounds reasonable, there may be more to the story.
The Windows maker is likely axing these features because they weren’t used widely. Most Edge users probably didn’t even know about their existence in the browser. Math Solver, for example, sits under the More tools section in the overflow menu and does precisely what its name suggests. It solves mathematical equations and problems. The feature opens in a side panel where you can drag and drop a problem or manually type it out.
It’s worth noting that Microsoft also offers Math Solver outside Edge. It’s available as a standalone app on Android and iOS, as well as on the web. Those who frequently use the feature probably prefer accessing it through these apps rather than through Edge. So this change likely won’t affect many users. If anything some users may miss the Kids Mode, which Microsoft added to the browser in April 2021.
As you might have guessed, Kids Mode allows parents to enable a kid-friendly browsing experience on Edge. It locks their children to approved sites only, blocking access to unwanted or potentially harmful sites. Parents can select the appropriate age range for their child: 5-8 years or 9-12 years. The feature blocks web trackers and enables Bing SafeSearch, which filters out adult text, images, and videos from search results.
Microsoft Edge 117 brings some new features as well
The latest beta update for Microsoft Edge isn’t all about feature deprecations. The company has also added a few new features. It now allows automatic two-way switching between work and personal browsing profiles for business users. Microsoft also uses AI to show related or matching words and phrases when you misspell a search query. There’s a new sustainability feature as well. You can find the full release notes here.
2023-08-29 15:06:55