Facebook is ready to introduce a brand-new in-app browser for Android that will replace the unstable Android System WebView.
Facebook publishes websites within the app, unlike other Android apps that load web connections in the customer’s preferred exterior browser.
As a result of users updating the Facebook app more frequently than the code behind the in-app browser, Facebook noticed an issue in how it manages external connections.
“Previously, Facebook’s in-app browser for Android depended on the Android system WebView, which is founded on Chromium.” Chromium is an open-access initiative that runs a large number of browsers on Android and other platforms.
We’ve seen that many Android users have upgraded their Facebook app but not their Chrome or WebView apps during the last few years. This can pose security problems and provide a bad user encounter.
The business cites vulnerability to zero-day attacks and Facebook app failures as major issues caused by its dependency on Android System WebView.
To address these concerns, Facebook created a distinct Chromium-based WebView that updates in tandem with Facebook app upgrades. Changing to a customized browser has various advantages, according to Facebook, like enhanced safety, privacy, and efficiency.
Benefits of the latest Facebook in-app browser for Android safety
Facebook can instantly provide users with the most recent Chromium security updates thanks to a special in-app browser. Whenever the client upgrades the Facebook app, it will be set up.
This stops users from viewing your web pages using out-of-date software, which may be dangerous.
Stable
According to Facebook, their unique browser technique should decrease app failures. App crashes may result from system updates to Android’s WebView engine. This is because we must ensure that every WebView instance closes so that Android can download the newest edition.
It is no longer necessary for Android to crash Facebook while upgrading the standard WebView because the Facebook app has a customized edition of WebView.
Performance
Facebook claims its specialized in-app browser enhances efficiency regarding displaying web pages and starting fast games through Facebook Gaming.
By activating GPU execution for the WebView, you can restrict how it is shown within your app. It enhances rendering accuracy and speed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re unfamiliar with the working system, the advantages mentioned above could sound like technical speak.
You should be aware that this modification will increase safety and speed while lowering the likelihood of app crashes when Facebook users access websites.
There are other Android apps besides Facebook that make use of a specialized in-app browser. Additionally, there are versions from Mozilla, Microsoft, and Samsung.
The corporation knows this move won’t affect users’ privacy preferences for Meta services.