Resolving Chrome and Edge Streaming Issues on Windows 11
Microsoft is stepping up to address a significant disruption affecting media streaming on Windows 11—particularly when users attempt to cast content to their Android TV via Chromecast. This problem manifests as choppy, distorted, or accelerated audio when users minimize their Chrome window, and it is set to be resolved with an upcoming update.
Understanding the Root of the Issue
The root cause of these audio problems lies within Windows 11’s power-saving feature. This mechanism, while beneficial for conserving battery life, inadvertently decreases the timer callbacks for background applications. As a result, the media playback processes that depend on a high-resolution timer experienced throttling, leading to poor audio synchronization during streaming activities.
User Experiences Highlighting the Problem
Feedback from users has revealed a spectrum of frustrations when trying to stream videos from Chrome to their Android TV. For instance, one user reported that streaming NHL games operated smoothly on Windows 10, but after upgrading to a new Windows 11 laptop, audio breaks occurred anytime Chrome was minimized or when another application took focus. Such experiences underline the urgency of this fix.
What’s New in the Chromium Update?
To remedy this audio situation, Microsoft is rolling out a Chromium update that enables Chrome and Edge to communicate with Windows effectively regarding their timer needs. The update introduces a new flag, PROCESS_POWER_THROTTLING_IGNORE_TIMER_RESOLUTION, which instructs Windows to maintain a high timer resolution for casting services even when they are running in the background. This adjustment is anticipated to eliminate the audio disturbances that users have been facing.
Looking Ahead: Impact of the Update
With this impending fix, Chrome users operating on Windows 11 can look forward to a significantly improved streaming experience to their Android TV, free from audio distortions. This update is projected to roll out over the next few weeks, exemplifying Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing user experiences in the digital landscape.
For the latest updates regarding this rollout and to gain deeper insights into similar challenges, feel free to explore the following resources:
- Microsoft Official Update Page – Stay informed about the latest fixes and updates.
- Previous Streaming Issue Article – Review historical issues to better understand improvements.
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