Google rolled out the latest version of its browser this week with the ability to freeze Tab Groups and have PWAs launch on startup. Under-the-hood, Chrome 91 is 23% faster, thanks to a pair of JavaScript additions.
It starts with a new JavaScript compiler that “fills the gap between needing to start executing quickly and optimizing the code for maximum performance.” Chrome uses a compiler called Ignition for the former scenario and Turbofan in the latter. Both were introduced three years ago as a part of a two-tier compiler system.
Sparkplug adds another compiler and “strikes a balance” between the two in that it generates native machine code, but doesn’t depend on information learned while executing the JavaScript code.
Meanwhile, short builtins have the V8 engine optimize where in memory generated code is placed to avoid indirect jumps when calling functions.
Google says short builtin calls are “especially impactful for the new Apple M1 chip” with more technical details available here.In all, Chrome 91 is now up to 23% faster and saves 17 years of user CPU time every day with these JavaScript updates.
Add 9to5Google to your Google News feed.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
