By Jon Fingas, Engadget
Chrome OS tablets still have some problems, not the least of which is
lag. Even if you buy a higher-end model like some configurations of
Google's own Pixel Slate, there's a real chance you'll grapple with a sluggish, stuttery interface -- it's been bad enough to be a deal-breaker for some. Thankfully, Google feels your pain. Chrome Unboxed has discovered
that Google hopes to address at least some of the lag that persists in
tablet mode. As it turns out, there might be a (relatively) simple fix.
Developers
noticed that a lot of lag in the tablet's overview mode stems from the
performance-intensive way it draws rounded corners. When you take them
away, performance jumps significantly even on the Celeron-based
entry-level Pixel Slate. This might not solve every issue with lag, but
it could at least improve the experience for tablet users who have to
enter overview mode on a frequent basis.
Just when you might get a
fix is another story. Google has labeled the lag issue as a high
priority, but the discussion thread on the topic started in early
November. A solution might not be right around the corner. If and when
it does show up, though, it could be welcome for anyone who likes the
thought of a Chrome OS tablet but wants software that lives up to the
hardware's potential.
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