Microsoft Edge has improved text contrast for all Chromium-based browsers on Windows, enhancing readability and reducing eye strain. This update, based on user feedback, applies to Google Chrome starting with version 13 Users can customize text rendering through the ClearType Text Tuner, ensuring optimal visibility across various languages.

Enhanced Text Contrast for Chromium-Based Browsers on Windows
In an era where digital reading is ubiquitous, Microsoft has taken a significant step to enhance user experience. The company has announced improved text contrast for all Chromium-based browsers on Windows. This update focuses on reducing eye strain and ensuring comfortable reading.
What’s New?
Microsoft’s latest update introduces enhanced text rendering capabilities across all Chromium-based browsers. This includes Google Chrome, starting from version 13 The improvements stem from user feedback, which highlighted the need for better text visibility.
“The contrast ratio between the text and its background is very important to ensure comfort and to reduce eye strain.”
By enhancing contrast and gamma correction, Microsoft aims to ensure that text quality in browsers matches that of native Windows applications. This is a game-changer for those who spend hours reading online content.
Major Updates
The update brings several enhancements to the Chromium open-source project. Users can now experience a significant increase in text visibility by adjusting the contrast value. For instance, a shift from a 0.5 to a 0 contrast value dramatically improves readability, especially for lighter text and CJK languages.
Moreover, Windows users can customize their text rendering settings using the ClearType Text Tuner. Simply search for “Adjust ClearType text” in the Start menu to access this feature. This tool allows users to test and configure different contrast and gamma values according to their preferences.
What’s Important to Know?
Understanding the technical background of these changes is crucial. Previously, Microsoft Edge utilized DirectWrite for consistent text rendering across Windows applications. However, Chromium has only partially adopted this system, leading to lighter text rendering, particularly noticeable in CJK characters.
“The quality and clarity of the text displayed in all browsers that are based on Chromium now match that of other native Windows applications.”
With these updates, Microsoft is committed to enhancing text rendering on the web. User feedback remains vital, so if you encounter any issues with text contrast, consider reaching out via the Chromium bug tracker or the Microsoft Edge feedback window.
In conclusion, these improvements mark a significant advancement in browser accessibility and user comfort. Enjoy your reading experience with clearer text and reduced eye strain!
From the Windows Blog