Microsoft's new approach to inking on the web improves latency by up to 240%
A new API from Microsoft reduces latency for inking on all Chromium browsers.
What you need to know
- Microsoft improved inking latency in its Edge browser.
- You can try the improved inking experience if you have the latest build of Edge Dev and the latest Windows 11 Insider preview build.
- Microsoft measured a 240% improvement in latency compared to its initial testing with Windows 11.
Microsoft has an enhanced inking experience in testing on Edge Dev. Microsoft explains that the improvements it's implemented result in up to a 240% improvement in latency for inking. To try out the new experience, your PC needs to be on the latest Windows 11 Insider preview buid. You also have to have the latest build of Microsoft Edge Dev.
The improvement is a result of Microsoft introducing a top level Ink API that developers can incorporate into web apps. Microsoft shares how to get the API to work with web apps in more depth in its blog post.
For users of the Edge browser, the end result is a smoother and quicker inking experience, as shown below. The green segment of the line illustrates the improvement in inking latency.
Microsoft explains the technical details behind the improvement:
Microsoft's efforts have been contributed to the Chromium project, so they should also benefit browsers other than Edge.
Smooth inking
Speeding up inking on the web
Microsoft's efforts resulted in up to a 240% improvement for inking latency. The improvements are in testing now but should make their way to Edge and other Chromium browsers in the future.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.