Google Chrome is still the dominant force in web browsers, and Microsoft has struggled to capture more market share with its Chromium-based Edge. Over time, Microsoft has tried various controversial strategies to promote Edge, including overriding default browser settings and, earlier this year, a “tab-stealing” data import bug that unintentionally took Chrome tabs. Now, it seems another Edge update is sparking concerns among users.
According to The Verge, a recent update makes Edge automatically launch when the PC starts and presents a pop-up prompting users to import data from other browsers. This pop-up includes an option to “bring over your data from other browsers regularly”—pre-checked by default—that will continuously import open tabs, browsing history, bookmarks, and other data from Chrome if confirmed. The design of this pop-up has led many to feel that Microsoft is attempting to subtly encourage a switch to Edge, especially since pre-checking this option means user data is moved automatically, making migration smoother.
Microsoft spokesperson Caitlin Roulston confirmed the pop-up’s purpose, stating it’s a notification designed to give users the choice to import data, and users have the option to turn it off. For those who may have accidentally enabled this feature, turning it off is straightforward:
- Open Edge and go to Settings.
- Select Profiles from the left panel.
- Under Profile settings, go to Import browser data.
- Find Import browsing data at each browser launch under “Import data from Google Chrome.”
- Toggle Import browser data from Google Chrome on each launch to Off.
While Edge has improved and offers features Chrome lacks, Microsoft’s pushy tactics leave a sour impression on users. It’s actions like these that may further damage user trust, especially if people feel they’re being maneuvered into switching browsers.
