Hi Microsoft, please stop using ‘harmful designs’ and deceptive tactics to give Edge the competitive advantage over other browsers on Windows, says Mozilla
Mozilla claims that Microsoft doesn’t give Windows users the freedom of choice when selecting the default browser on Windows.
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What you need to know
Even in 2024, browser wars continue to be a thing. Users have varied interests and wants regarding the browser they use on their devices.Google ChromeandMicrosoft Edgeare arguably the most popular browsers among users, but is it by choice or design?
The folks at Mozilla have openly indicated that it’s the latter, further throwing blame at Microsoft. The company pointed out that usersdon’t have free will to use any browser as their default on Windows devices.
Mozilla tasked Harry Brignull and Cennydd Bowles, alongside researchers and experts, to investigate the matter. As it turns out, Microsoft might be playing a foul game by preventing freedom of choice when selecting default browsers on Windows (via TechRadar).
In the report “Over the Edge: The Use of Design Tactics to Undermine Browser Choice,” the researchers point out how Microsoft has placed its Edge browser on a pedestal across its operating system, leaving its competitors at a disadvantage.
The report also outlines the deceptive ploys the tech giant leverages to affirm its position in the race for browser dominance, including misleading UIs and ads, alarming notifications that are worded and presented as system warnings, and more.
Microsoft, Google, and Apple weresome companies listed as gatekeepers by the EU Commissionlast year. Microsoft made the list because of its Windows OS and LinkedIn, and Google for its Chrome browser and search engine. The Commission gave the gatekeepers six months to comply with the DMA; failure would attract hefty fines and penalties. One of the requirements under the DMA tasks the companies listed to make their services interoperable.
Interestingly, Microsoft’s Bing was initially listed as a gatekeeper service, but the company argued thatthe search engine hadn’t hit the threshold to fall under this category. The Commission investigated the matter and recently concluded thatBing and Edge aren’t dominant enough in digital markets, exempting them from DMA regulation.
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Mozilla hoped that the DMA regulation on Microsoft Edge would give Firefox some breathing space and the opportunity to compete on an even playing field. But as it happens, that ship has seemingly sailed off with its competitive advantage. Microsoft’s CEO, Satya Nadella, shares the same sentiments regarding search, adding thatGoogle doesn’t play fair with Bing.
It’s the same script for Microsoft, just a different play
This isn’t the first time we’ve learned about Microsoft pushing its browser and search engine down users' throats. Late last year, some users trying to download Google Chrome while using Microsoft Edge were slapped with a survey asking them to detailwhy they wanted to try another browser.
How can we forget when Microsoft deliberately placed ads on Google Chrome’s download page, perhaps to prevent users from transitioning? The fact that Windows 11 and 10 come with Microsoft Edge preinstalled doesn’t improve the situation.
Mozilla further makes its case in thein-depth reportand pleads with regulators to look into the matter to promote healthy competition.
Kevin Okemwa is a seasoned tech journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya with lots of experience covering the latest trends and developments in the industry at Windows Central. With a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, he has written for leading publications such as OnMSFT, MakeUseOf, and Windows Report, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on everything revolving around the Microsoft ecosystem. You’ll also catch him occasionally contributing at iMore about Apple and AI. While AFK and not busy following the ever-emerging trends in tech, you can find him exploring the world or listening to music.
