In a move that has sparked controversy among the tech community, Microsoft Edge is now implementing a new strategy to dissuade users from downloading Google Chrome. Reports have surfaced indicating that the browser’s Sidebar will prompt a survey when attempting to download Google’s rival browser, raising eyebrows over Microsoft’s growing crusade against Chrome.
The survey, recently discovered by Neowin, emerges in Edge’s Sidebar, a convenient feature in its own right. However, critics argue that its usage to question users’ intentions behind seeking an alternative browser might be perceived as intrusive.
Notably, the survey appears to be in a limited testing phase, with some users encountering it while others remain unaffected.
The questionnaire asks users a pointed question: “Can you please take a minute to tell us why you are trying another browser?” It then offers a list of potential answers, including options such as difficulties with searching Google, accessing Google documents, lack of favorites or passwords, too many ads and pop-ups, disliking the news feed, browser speed, website compatibility issues with Microsoft Edge, and a final choice for users to provide their reasons.
Microsoft’s persistent efforts to steer users away from Chrome have intensified in recent times, with the company reportedly tightening restrictions on setting Chrome as the default browser and inundating users with cautionary messages during Chrome’s installation process.
Not too far in the past, the tech giant sent notifications to users, urging them to change their default search engine from Google’s Chrome to Microsoft’s Bing.
As the battle for browser supremacy rages on, it remains to be seen how users and industry regulators will respond to Microsoft’s latest tactics and whether it will have a lasting impact on the dynamics of the web browsing landscape. Do share your views with us in the comments section below.
Via Neowin
