Google has announced significant improvements to Chrome for Android over the past two years, particularly focusing on performance metrics measured by the Speedometer benchmark. This benchmark is widely regarded for its accurate reflection of real-world browser performance, evaluating how quickly Chrome processes interactions with web pages, including HTML/CSS parsing, rendering, and JavaScript execution.
Since Chrome version 112 in April 2023, Speedometer 2.1 scores on Android have seen dramatic increases. For instance, loading a Google Docs file on a Pixel Tablet now takes 50% less time compared to earlier benchmarks. On numerous gadgets, the scores have dramatically increased, with the most recent Snapdragon 8 World class Versatile Stage establishing new execution standards for cell phones.
Key Enhancements
Optimizing for ARM64 Architecture
By transitioning from ARM32 to ARM64, Chrome now leverages more efficient ARM instruction sets and larger 64-bit operations. This allows for optimizations favoring speed (-O2/-O3) over size (-Oz), especially for premium devices with ample disk space and memory. Additional changes include updated compiler models to enhance inlining for frequently used code while reducing it in less critical areas, enabling faster execution of hot code paths. Chrome also adopted profile-guided optimization (PGO) techniques and improved cross-function code ordering by synchronizing order file generation with new ARM64 builds. Notably, Speedometer 3, the latest industry-standard benchmark, is now included in Chrome's performance evaluations.
V8 JavaScript Engine and Blink Rendering Engine Updates
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Enhancements have likewise been made to the V8 JavaScript motor and the Flicker delivering motor: |
- Faster Parsing: A new fast-path HTML parser enhances the speed of internal HTML processing.
- Advanced Compilers: The V8 engine introduced the Sparkplug compiler, a rapid baseline compiler for quick code execution, and Maglev, a mid-tier compiler for semi-optimized code. Together, these compilers improve performance while reducing energy consumption.
- Garbage Collection: Heuristic adjustments target idle times or when users navigate away from pages, improving rendering efficiency.
- Comprehensive Optimizations: Additional tweaks across parsing, styling, layout, and text rendering engines further enhance performance.
Collaboration with Android Partners
Google partnered with device manufacturers, particularly Qualcomm, to optimize thread scheduling and maximize silicon capabilities. By combining improved hardware performance with advanced scheduling policies, the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform achieved 60–80% better Speedometer 3.0 scores compared to its predecessor, setting a new standard for mobile web performance.
With these advancements, Chrome for Android now delivers unparalleled speed and efficiency, solidifying its status as a top-tier browser for mobile devices.
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