Mozilla reports Microsoft continues to steer users toward Edge outside EEA
Key Takeaway
Mozilla claims Microsoft only respects browser choice when legally mandated by the Digital Markets Act in the European Economic Area.
Summary
One hundred days after the 'Over The Edge 2.0' report, Mozilla states that Microsoft continues to use deceptive design patterns to prioritize Edge. While some changes were implemented in the European Economic Area (EEA) due to the Digital Markets Act, users in other regions still face forced defaults in Windows Search, Widgets, and Copilot. Mozilla is now taking these findings to global regulators.
Deceptive design patterns identified
- Windows Search and Widgets: Links continue to open in Edge regardless of the user's default browser settings.
- File Associations: Edge remains the default for PDF and SVG files even after user changes.
- Copilot Integration: The AI tool opens web links in a side-panel instead of the user's chosen browser.
- Windows Backup: The migration tool attempts to silently set Edge as the default during PC restoration.
- Regional Disparity: Features that respect user choice are currently limited to the EEA due to regulatory pressure.
Why it matters
The report highlights how platform owners can use AI and OS integration to control the distribution of web services and privacy protections.
Original reference: blog.mozilla.org →