Windows wants to talk you out of Chrome

© Screencap Neowin.

Microsoft is dismayed to see users shy away from Edge in favor of competing browsers such as market leader Google Chrome. In an attempt to discourage people from installing the rival browser, Microsoft stepped up its campaign to get users to go for its built-in browser using methods that some may find amusing and others annoying: Windows 10 and Windows 11 both show new prompts when people browse to Chrome’s download page. These new messages, spotted by Neowin, go something like: “Microsoft Edge runs on the same technology as Chrome, with the added trust of Microsoft.” “That browser is so 2008! Do you know what’s new? Microsoft Edge.” “‘I hate saving money,’ said no one ever. Microsoft Edge is the best browser for online shopping.”

The onslaught doesn’t end there. If in Edge, you insert requests like “browser” or “browser download” on Bing, you get responses such as “There’s no need to download a new web browser. Microsoft recommends using Microsoft Edge for a fast, secure, and modern web experience that can help save you time and money.” Microsoft has also come under heavy criticism for integrating a “buy now, pay later” app directly into Edge, steering users toward a short-term financing service when browsing shopping websites.

⇨ The Verge, Tom Warren, “Microsoft’s new Windows prompts try to stop people downloading Chrome.”

2021-12-02