Microsoft is once again under the spotlight for allegedly employing aggressive strategies to push Windows users towards its Edge browser while restricting the use of alternative browsers. A detailed investigation by Mozilla Research, dubbed Over the Edge 2.0, accuses the tech giant of designing its software in ways that make it challenging for users to download, set as default, and consistently use other browsers on Windows devices.

The report points out that Microsoft promotes Edge throughout its ecosystem, including Windows, Bing, and Copilot, with features that supposedly deter users from switching to competing browsers. Specific issues highlighted include promotional banners targeting Chrome users to switch to Edge, instances where links open in Edge regardless of default browser settings, and cases where browser preferences are not maintained following software upgrades.

The Browser Choice Alliance, a coalition that includes companies like Opera, Vivaldi, and Google Chrome, has expressed concern over these findings, stating that Microsoft’s methods adversely affect global browser competition. The alliance is urging Microsoft to honor user preferences and foster a more equitable browsing environment. Despite these concerns, Google Chrome continues to dominate the browser market with nearly 70% market share, followed by Apple’s Safari in second place, and Microsoft Edge in third with just over 5%.

Notably, researchers have observed that browser choice is more protected within the European Economic Area due to regulations under the Digital Markets Act, which have compelled Microsoft to abandon some of the contested practices. However, the report argues that many of these tactics remain prevalent in other regions, including the United States, India, and the United Kingdom.

In response to these ongoing concerns, industry groups are advocating for Microsoft to make it easier for users to switch browsers and to discontinue practices that are perceived as detrimental to competition and consumer choice.