Corsair has introduced a web-based firmware update utility that allows users to update their PC peripherals directly through their browser, eliminating the need for standalone software installation. This move appears to be a direct response to widespread user complaints about the company's notoriously resource-heavy iCUE software suite.
The new Firmware Update Utility operates directly through Chromium-based browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Opera, though Firefox and Safari support is not yet available. Users can now update their device firmware without downloading Corsair's standard iCUE software package, which has grown to over 430MB in size.
"We developed this tool based on customer feedback," said Corsair Vice President Tobias Brinkmann. The company markets the browser-based solution as convenient, accessible, and portable.
The web utility includes features like email registration for firmware update notifications and can detect connected Corsair devices to check for available updates. While the current device compatibility list is limited, Corsair plans to expand support for both new and existing peripherals over time.
This development marks a notable shift in how peripheral manufacturers approach firmware updates. However, some users may feel hesitant about allowing browser-based access to hardware-level functions, despite the convenience factor.
The new tool specifically targets firmware updates, while the full iCUE software remains necessary for advanced features like RGB lighting customization and peripheral programming. This browser-based approach could signal a broader industry trend toward lighter, more streamlined peripheral management solutions.