The latest Microsoft Edge update cuts one of its best tools in an attempt to reduce bloat
Web Select hits the Recycle Bin, and we’re not happy.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
What you need to know
Microsoft recentlyshipped Edge 117 to the Stable Channelfor everyone to download. The update stands out from previous ones because aside from adding new features, fixes, and improvements, it also removes several. Previously, users have complained about Edge’s ‘bloat’ and how Microsoft keeps adding new features to the Chromium-based browsers that one might not necessarily find helpful.
In the release notes (Edge, version 117.0.2045.31), Microsoft indicated that it would be decrepitating several features, including Web Select, a neat feature designed to help users capture and copy web content. But unlike other screenshot tools, the feature is much more sophisticated as it preserves the captured content’s original format and functionality.
While Microsoft has indicated that this move will improve the browser’s overall user experience, it hasn’t been received with dismay. Users have been vocal about the change across multiple social media platforms,especially Reddit, citing the feature’s importance.
Deprecated Edge features
Microsoft Edge will also lose features like Math Solver, Picture Dictionary, Citations, Grammar Tools, and Kids Mode. The companyindicatedthis move would help " improve end user experience and simplify the More tools menu."
I use it ALL the time for note-taking and text selection where regular text selection (into a clipboard), the “Share” or “Print to OneNote” features do not function as expected on numerous webpages .. I don’t even completely know how to describe the functionality vs similar tool sets… 🤔
Web Select can still be enabled
At the beginning of this month, a user on X reached out to Leo Varela, a credible source when to Microsoft Edge news, regarding the removal of the Web Select feature. Leo Varela responded and predicted that the feature might be deprecated, which has now come to pass.
And while the change has been received with a lot blow back from users, Leo Varela indicated that users can enable the feature via a command line flag:–enable-features=msEdgeAreaSelect
Microsoft has added an option to easily hide Edge’s new dropdown menu:https://t.co/Gx67RTPTrA.https://t.co/qzKrz8zKan pic.twitter.com/4SPvGAWdn4September 1, 2023
ThanksLeopeva64 on x(formerly Twitter) for the tip!
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
As part of the release, the company also announced thatMicrosoft Edge for Businessis available for unmanaged Windows (BYOPC) using Microsoft Intune Mobile Application Management (MAM). It also highlighted the following supporting changes for Microsoft Edge:
Edge version 117.0.2045.31: Feature updates
Edge version 117.0.2045.31: Policy updates
New policies
Deprecated policies
Obsoleted policy
Microsoft Edge | Free
Microsoft Edge is the default browser on Windows. It’s based on Chromium, so it’s compatible with most of the web. Several Insider versions of the browser allow you to test new features and provide feedback to Microsoft.
Kevin Okemwa is a seasoned tech journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya with lots of experience covering the latest trends and developments in the industry at Windows Central. With a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, he has written for leading publications such as OnMSFT, MakeUseOf, and Windows Report, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on everything revolving around the Microsoft ecosystem. You’ll also catch him occasionally contributing at iMore about Apple and AI. While AFK and not busy following the ever-emerging trends in tech, you can find him exploring the world or listening to music.
