Google Chrome continues to dominate the browser landscape, leaving Microsoft in a challenging position as it seeks to expand the reach of its Chromium-based Edge browser. Over the years, Microsoft has employed various strategies, some of which have raised eyebrows, to gain a foothold in this competitive space.
Recent reports indicate that Microsoft has introduced a new update for Edge that automatically launches the browser upon starting your PC. This update also prompts users to import data from other browsers, a move that has sparked discussions about user experience and transparency.
Edge’s New Pop-Up Feature
The Verge highlighted that this pop-up comes with a pre-checked option to “bring over your data from other browsers regularly.” This feature encompasses open tabs, browsing history, bookmarks, and more. If users inadvertently confirm this prompt, Edge will begin to continuously import data from Chrome, potentially leading to a seamless transition that some might interpret as a clever maneuver by Microsoft to encourage users to switch browsers.
In response to these concerns, Microsoft has acknowledged the pop-up’s existence. Caitlin Roulston, a spokesperson for the company, stated, “This is a notification giving people the choice to import data from other browsers. There is an option to turn it off.”
For those who may have accidentally enabled this feature, here’s a straightforward guide to disable it:
- Open Edge and navigate to Settings.
- In the left panel, select Profiles.
- Scroll down to Profile settings and click on Import browser data.
- Under “Import data from Google Chrome,” find Import browsing data at each browser launch.
- Toggle the setting for “Import browser data from Google Chrome on each launch” to Off.
- Close Edge and continue with your browsing experience.
Such tactics contribute to the growing skepticism surrounding Microsoft’s practices, as user trust continues to wane. While Edge may offer advantages over Chrome in certain aspects, the perception of being misled can deter users from making the switch. The future remains uncertain as to whether Microsoft will adapt its approach, but the industry watches closely.
Further reading: Sick of Chrome and Edge? Try these other browsers
