How to Enable Mica in Microsoft Edge After Its Removal

Microsoft Edge 138: Limited Mica Support for Windows 11 Users

The launch of Microsoft Edge 138 has introduced disappointing changes for Windows 11 users who appreciate the aesthetic appeal of the Mica material. With this update, the option to apply Mica across various user interface elements such as the tab strip and context menus has been removed, resulting in a rather lackluster appearance. Some users have even criticized the current look of Edge as unsightly. Nonetheless, there is a silver lining: users can still attempt to enable Mica, albeit in a limited fashion.

How to Enable Mica in Microsoft Edge

While the option to “Show Windows 11 visual effects in title bar and toolbar”remains accessible within edge://flags, turning it on currently lacks any effect. Here’s a step-by-step guide to attempt reintroducing Mica:

Access Settings > System and Performance > System and disable Startup Boost if it’s activated.
Close your Microsoft Edge browser.
Right-click on your Microsoft Edge shortcut and select Properties.
In the Path box, insert a space and append the command: –enable-features=Windows11MicaTitlebar.
Click Ok to save the changes, and then relaunch the browser.

Limitations of the Mica Implementation

It’s important to note that this workaround is not comprehensive; it only provides partial Mica support for the tab strip. This is due to the command leveraging an initial Mica implementation included in Chromium, which was integrated some time ago. Although Google has explored Mica in Chrome, it remains disabled by default for the broader user base. If you have a yearning for this design element, this is the method to partially restore it. However, perfection is not achieved with this solution, as it stands.

Vertical Tabs and Mica: A No-Go

Users who favor vertical tabs should be aware that this trick may create complications. When the “Windows11MicaTitlebar”feature is combined with vertical tabs, the interface can become chaotic, especially if the title bar is deactivated.

For those seeking more community insights, visit the conversation on Reddit.

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