Amid growing concerns over its business practices, Microsoft is once again under the microscope for allegedly using aggressive strategies to push Windows users toward its Edge browser, potentially limiting the use of competing browsers. A recent analysis by Mozilla Research, entitled Over the Edge 2.0, scrutinizes Microsoft’s design choices, suggesting that these create hurdles for users trying to download, set as default, and continue using alternative browsers on Windows devices.
The report accuses Microsoft of promoting Edge through Windows, Bing, and Copilot in ways that could dissuade users from switching to rival browsers. It points to issues such as promotional messages aimed at Chrome users to encourage them to switch to Edge, instances where links open in Edge despite a user’s different default browser setting, and situations where browser preferences aren’t maintained after system updates.
The Browser Choice Alliance, which includes companies like Opera, Vivaldi, and Google Chrome, argues that these findings illustrate how Microsoft’s practices have a global impact on browser competition. The alliance has called on Microsoft to honor user preferences and provide a more equitable browsing experience for all users. Despite these concerns, Google Chrome continues to dominate the browser market, holding nearly 70% of the global share, followed by Apple’s Safari, with Microsoft Edge trailing in third with just over a 5% share.
According to the research, browser choice appears to be more protected within the European Economic Area due to regulations enforced by the Digital Markets Act, which has compelled Microsoft to retract some of the practices criticized by competitors. However, the report suggests that many of the controversial tactics persist in other markets, including the United States, India, and the United Kingdom.
Industry groups are now pressing Microsoft to simplify the process for switching browsers and to eliminate actions they view as detrimental to competition and consumer choice. They argue that addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a competitive environment that respects user autonomy and preferences.