The latest version of Google's Chrome browser has been released, and with it comes a much-needed upgrade.

Chrome 91 is not only 23% faster, but also promises to free up CPU and RAM resources by freezing collapsed tab groups. However, as a result, the tab grid view can no longer be disabled.

Chrome's newfound speed comes from two compilers added to JavaScript called Ignition and Turbofan. They both "bridge the gap between the need to start execution quickly and the need to optimize code for maximum performance."

Simply put, these optimizers help Chrome process code at startup and run faster during ongoing use.

Better, however, are optimizations that reduce Chrome's CPU and RAM consumption: when Chrome tab groups are collapsed to free up browser and window space, Chrome 91 essentially reduces the computing resources used by these tabs, freeing up power for other uses; by reducing CPU and RAM usage, it also reduces laptop battery power consumption when away from an electrical outlet.

The drawback, however, is that, as mentioned above, one must stick with Chrome's tab grid view. Grid layouts and tab grouping are not new, having first been introduced to Chrome for Android in January. Meanwhile, inactive tab freezes were first introduced in Chrome 89, and last month's update reduced CPU usage by up to 35%; Chrome 91 builds on all of that.

But that's not all Chrome 91 offers. The forms have been revamped with a more modern look and feel, and do not look as if they were pulled straight out of Windows XP. Similarly, web apps can now read files from the clipboard, allowing users to copy and paste files regardless of the purpose of the web app. Chrome's password manager also recognizes sites that use the same login system across multiple domains and autofills the page.

These are all small updates, but they add up to something very big: not only is Chrome 91 more convenient and easier to view, but taking away the opportunity for Chrome to hog system resources is always a good thing.