Microsoft is once again under the spotlight due to allegations of employing aggressive strategies to promote its Edge browser, potentially stifling the use of competing browsers on Windows devices. A recent study, Over the Edge 2.0, conducted by Mozilla Research, suggests that Microsoft’s design practices complicate the process of downloading, setting as default, and consistently using alternative browsers.
The report claims that Microsoft leverages its platforms such as Windows, Bing, and Copilot to encourage users to stick with Edge, allegedly through tactics that dissuade them from opting for competitor browsers. Mozilla Research pointed out several areas of concern, including promotional messages urging Chrome users to switch to Edge, instances of links opening in Edge contrary to the user’s designated default browser, and issues with browser preferences not being maintained after software updates.
The Browser Choice Alliance, a coalition including companies like Opera, Vivaldi, and Google Chrome, has voiced concerns that Microsoft’s actions are impeding global browser competition. The alliance has urged Microsoft to honor user preferences and ensure a more equitable browsing experience. Despite these allegations, Google Chrome maintains its dominant position in the browser market, commanding nearly 70% of the global share. Apple’s Safari follows in second place, while Microsoft Edge holds the third position with just over 5% market share.
Researchers have observed that within the European Economic Area, browser choice appears to be more safeguarded. This change is attributed to the Digital Markets Act, which has compelled Microsoft to eliminate some practices critiqued by competitors. Nonetheless, the report indicates that several criticized tactics persist in regions like the United States, India, and the United Kingdom.
In light of these findings, industry groups are advocating for Microsoft to make the process of switching browsers more user-friendly and to discontinue practices they argue are detrimental to competition and consumer choice.