Microsoft is once again under the microscope for its alleged tactics aimed at directing Windows users to its Edge browser while restricting the use of competitors. Mozilla Research’s recent report, “Over the Edge 2.0,” suggests that Microsoft employs design strategies that complicate the process of downloading, setting, and maintaining alternative browsers as defaults on Windows devices.
The report claims Microsoft promotes Edge by integrating it across Windows, Bing, and Copilot, using features that purportedly deter users from migrating to other browsers. Specific concerns raised include promotional messages encouraging Chrome users to switch to Edge, links defaulting to open in Edge regardless of user settings, and browser preferences sometimes being overridden during system updates.
The Browser Choice Alliance, representing companies like Opera, Vivaldi, and Google Chrome, argues that these practices hinder global browser competition. The group urges Microsoft to honor user preferences and contribute to a more equitable browsing experience. Despite these issues, Google Chrome maintains a dominant position in the browser market with nearly 70% share, while Apple’s Safari and Microsoft Edge trail with second and third positions, respectively.
Researchers observed that browser choice is better supported in the European Economic Area, where the Digital Markets Act has prompted Microsoft to alter some criticized practices. Nevertheless, they contend that many of these contentious tactics persist in other markets such as the United States, India, and the United Kingdom.
With these findings, industry groups are calling on Microsoft to make it easier for users to switch browsers and to cease practices that they claim harm competition and limit consumer choice.