Microsoft is once again under the spotlight due to accusations of employing aggressive strategies to promote its Edge browser, potentially hindering the use of other browsers on Windows devices. A recent report by Mozilla Research, titled Over the Edge 2.0, suggests that Microsoft’s design tactics make it challenging for users to download, set as default, and consistently use alternative browsers.
The report accuses Microsoft of promoting Edge through Windows, Bing, and Copilot, with features that allegedly deter users from opting for rival browsers. Among the concerns raised are promotional banners aimed at convincing Chrome users to switch to Edge, instances where links open in Edge despite users having set a different default browser, and cases where browser preferences are not retained during system upgrades.
The Browser Choice Alliance, which includes companies like Opera, Vivaldi, and Google Chrome, emphasized that these findings illustrate the impact of Microsoft’s practices on global browser competition. The alliance has urged Microsoft to honor user preferences and facilitate a more equitable browsing environment.
Market data reveals that Google Chrome remains the leading browser worldwide, commanding nearly 70% of the market share, with Apple’s Safari following in second place. Microsoft Edge holds the third position, accounting for just over 5% of the market.
Researchers observe that the European Economic Area shows better protection for browser choice due to the Digital Markets Act, which has compelled Microsoft to amend some criticized practices. However, they note that many of these contested measures persist in regions like the United States, India, and the United Kingdom. Industry groups are advocating for Microsoft to streamline the process of switching browsers and to cease practices deemed detrimental to competition and consumer choice.