Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge have introduced a new feature called “Selective format read” that enhances how these browsers handle content from the clipboard. This development aims to optimize the way browsers process clipboard data, reducing unnecessary memory usage and delays.
The previous method of handling clipboard content involved loading all available information, including text, HTML, images, and other data formats, even if a web application only required plain text. This approach could lead to inefficiencies and slower performance when users pasted content into a browser.
The new feature works by first inquiring about the types of data present in the clipboard. The web application then requests only the specific format it needs, allowing for more targeted and efficient data retrieval. This streamlined process is designed to improve the overall user experience.
Selective format read is currently available in version 149 of both Chrome and Edge, with the feature enabled by default. Notably, this improvement applies automatically to all websites, eliminating the need for developers to make any adjustments to their code.