What you need to know
In a notable shift, Microsoft is breathing new life into the MSN brand, unveiling a refreshed logo that replaces the “Microsoft Start” branding within the Edge browser. This strategic move marks a return to the familiar MSN identity, as the tech giant consolidates its news content services under this iconic name once again.
After rebranding many of its MSN services to “Microsoft Start” in 2021, Microsoft appears to be retracing its steps. Users began to observe the transition last week, as the Microsoft Start website and the new tab page in Edge showcased the updated MSN logo, which elegantly incorporates Microsoft’s contemporary design ethos into the beloved MSN butterfly emblem.
A spokesperson for Microsoft confirmed this rebranding initiative to Windows Central, emphasizing the company’s intention to unify its news content services under the MSN banner. This move aligns with the vision of creating “the everything app” akin to WeChat in China, which seamlessly integrates social networking, news, video, gaming, and payment functionalities.
MSN’s journey began in 1995 alongside the launch of Windows 95, initially serving as a subscription-based dial-up service. By 1998, it evolved into the MSN.com web portal that many users recognize today. Over the years, it has held the position of the default homepage for Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge, while also being woven into the fabric of Windows 10 and Windows 11 through features like News & Interests and Widgets.
Despite the passage of time, MSN continues to attract millions of daily visitors. In 2005, it ranked as the second most visited portal globally. The brand has been synonymous with various Microsoft internet services during the late 90s and early 2000s, including MSN Messenger, MSN Hotmail, and MSN Search, many of which have since transitioned to names like Skype, Outlook, and Bing.
Today, MSN primarily functions as a news aggregator, complemented by spin-off services such as MSN Weather, MSN Money, and MSN Gaming, which offers browser-based games. While the brand’s prominence may have waned over the years, its nostalgic resonance remains strong, potentially holding greater value than the lesser-known “Start” branding.
