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Microsoft is facing renewed criticism after reports emerged that recent updates to Windows and Edge aim to dissuade users from installing Google Chrome.
Users accessing Chrome’s download page via Microsoft Edge now see a new banner showcasing Edge’s integrated security features. Instead of concentrating on performance or compatibility evaluations, Microsoft’s new notification highlights security, internet safety, and threat mitigation.
The banner advertises Edge as a comprehensive browser, highlighting features such as private browsing, password management, and safeguards against internet dangers. Users clicking the “Browse securely now” button are taken to a newly launched Online Safety page on Microsoft’s site.
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Microsoft Continues Its Anti-Chrome Rhetorics
This strategy is a shift from Microsoft’s earlier tactic, which aimed to attract Chrome users by frequently emphasised that Edge uses the same Chromium engine as Chrome. It has also serially claimed to have improved performance over Chrome, a claim that may be difficult to prove. This time around, Microsoft is focusing its argument instead on security.
The action has faced backlash from the Browser Choice Alliance, which includes Google Chrome among its members. The coalition accused Microsoft of promoting deceptive security stories to influence user decisions and weaken competition. It claimed that Microsoft should honour consumer choice instead of altering pop-ups to deter the use of competing browsers.
Concerns regarding security in Chrome remain a complex issue. This year, Google has resolved various exploited vulnerabilities in the browser, fixing multiple high-severity issues that impacted billions of users globally. Cybersecurity analysts have observed that Chrome is frequently targeted by advanced threat actors, including state-sponsored entities.
Also, experts say that many Chrome vulnerabilities are similarly applicable to Microsoft Edge, as both browsers use the Chromium codebase. In recent instances, Google provided Chrome with patches for serious vulnerabilities as much as 48 hours before the release of similar updates for Edge users.
Consequently, analysts say that the security discussion surrounding Chrome and Edge is anything but straightforward. This is because both browsers face comparable risks and obligations. The most recent update intensifies concerns regarding browser competition, user options, and the extent to which platform owners should promote their products.
