Spiria logo.

Microsoft to push users over the Edge

September 12, 2018.

Microsoft intercepting Firefox and Chrome installation on Windows 10.

Windows 10 version 1809 Insider. © Microsoft.

In the upcoming version of Windows 10, set to launch in October, when you try to install Chrome or Firefox, a large window will pop up with the message, “You already have Microsoft Edge – the safer, faster browser for Windows 10.” You’ll then have two choices: the default option, in blue, “Open Microsoft Edge”, and the second option, in grey, “Install anyway”. Needless to say, the reaction of Insider testers was less than enthusiastic. After all, if you’re going through the trouble of installing a different browser on your system, it’s probably because you’re already familiar with Edge and specifically don’t want to use it. This marketing faux-pas just looks like desperation to us, and is bound to irritate 99% of people who choose to use Chrome or Firefox for their own reasons. It’s no wonder Microsoft is desperate: the use of Edge never really took off, and is even dropping. But given the howling on insider networks and in the press, who knows, maybe this “feature” will be quietly dropped.

gHacks Tech News, “Microsoft intercepting Firefox and Chrome installation on Windows 10.”