Microsoft Edge version 138 removes the outdated -ms-high-contrast CSS features, fully embracing the standards-based forced colors mode. This shift ensures consistent accessibility experiences across Chromium browsers and Firefox, promoting better web interoperability and modernized contrast theme support. Unique :
Microsoft Edge Drops -ms-high-contrast for Modern Forced Colors
Microsoft Edge is officially moving on from its old, non-standard CSS features. Starting with version 138, the -ms-high-contrast media feature and -ms-high-contrast-adjust property are gone. This marks a big step toward embracing web standards and improving accessibility across browsers.
What’s New?
Over a year ago, Microsoft introduced a standards-based forced colors feature in Chromium-based Edge. This replaced the outdated -ms-high-contrast CSS that was originally designed for Internet Explorer and EdgeHTML. Now, with the old features fully removed, developers must switch to the new forced colors mode.
This new mode is supported not only by Edge but also by other Chromium browsers and Firefox. The result? A consistent browsing experience for users relying on Windows contrast themes.
Major Updates and Why They Matter
Removing these proprietary CSS features means better interoperability across browsers. Users who depend on high contrast settings will see more uniform website appearances regardless of their browser choice. This is a win for web accessibility and developer sanity alike.
Microsoft encourages developers to test their sites with the new forced colors mode. The company’s initial deprecation announcement offers guidance on how to adapt existing sites to these modern standards.
Key Takeaway
“We are looking forward to seeing more web developers move to the new forced colors feature.” – Alison Maher, Microsoft Edge Team
If your site still relies on the old -ms-high-contrast features, it’s time to update. Testing with contrast themes enabled will help ensure your site remains accessible and visually consistent.
How to Provide Feedback
Microsoft values community input during this transition. If you encounter any issues after the removal, you can send feedback directly from Edge:
- Go to Settings and more (…) > Help and feedback > Send feedback
Alternatively, report bugs related to the Chromium implementation of forced colors mode on the Chromium bug tracker.
“The browsing experience of people using Windows contrast theme will be consistent between Edge, other Chromium-based browsers, and Firefox.” – Microsoft Edge Blog
Wrapping Up
Microsoft Edge’s move away from -ms-high-contrast CSS features is a clear push toward modern web standards. Developers and users alike benefit from improved accessibility and cross-browser consistency. If you haven’t already, start testing your sites with forced colors mode today to stay ahead.
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