Windows 11 continues to default back to Edge… No matter what I do, Microsoft has it rigged to go back to Edge. This is getting frustrating to the point I am ready to delete key files so Edge doesn’t work.
Voices on browser choice
For years, consumers have complained about Microsoft’s deceitful tactics, the desire to freely choose their own browser and for that choice to be respected. Today, a rising chorus of voices are speaking out against Microsoft’s dark patterns.
Internet users
Every day, billions of people rely on desktop browsers to communicate, shop, bank, work, and navigate essential online activities, making those desktop browsers a critical link between individuals and the digital world.
Windows 11 continues to default back to Edge… No matter what I do, Microsoft has it rigged to go back to Edge. This is getting frustrating to the point I am ready to delete key files so Edge doesn’t work.
I stopped using Edge after it randomly just imported all my Chrome saved logging data. And NO I did not give it permission to do so.
After updating my Microsoft OS, my Chrome browser got deleted, I have re-installed at least 6+ times, works for a few days, then its gone. Now I am not able to install. I don’t want to use Microsoft Edge, I want Chrome. Help please!!!
“I used Edge for years, but these assertive pop-ups alongside the endless spew of useless features revealing themselves through intrusive pop-ups lead me to switch to Firefox.”
Microsoft OS User
Tech industry
Rival browser suppliers rely on Windows (and therefore Edge) to reach users. Microsoft’s anti-competitive tactics threaten the developer ecosystem by making it harder for alternative browsers to survive. By pushing and misleading users into staying on Edge, Microsoft is limiting competition, stifling innovation, and restricting choice.
I’m still hoping Microsoft will eventually give up with these annoying pop-ups and respect Windows users’ choice to pick whichever search engine and browser they wish to use.
Imagine this, if you’re in your 20s right now and you die in your 90s, you are going to have about 70 years of Microsoft trying to trick you into not using Chrome as your default browser.
“Microsoft not respecting the default browser to open native Windows stuff in Edge and Bing is so annoying. Anticompetitive imo.”
Max Weinbach
Tech Analyst
Regulators & policymakers
Microsoft’s practices restrict market competition, limit innovation, and reinforce Microsoft’s dominance. Regulators have a critical role to play in ensuring a fair, open, digital marketplace.
The Digital Markets Act will help create a level-playing field for all companies competing in the European digital market, as it will bring about more contestability and openness in markets.
Microsoft made its web browser and online search engine applications un-installable on its Windows operating system. It also ended recommendations in various Windows experiences to set Edge as the default web browser for users in the European Economic Area (EEA). The Commission is keeping Microsoft’s compliance plan under review, to ensure that it effectively complies with all aspects of its obligations.
…it’s essential that our [Competition Markets Authority] work in digital markets is developed and implemented at a pace that keeps up with market dynamics.
European innovation must be at the heart of our digital sovereignty. We must create a framework conducive to investment, research and development, while guaranteeing balanced regulation that protects without slowing down growth!
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