Microsoft Edge’s Bing Conceals Google Chrome Download Link on Windows 11

Microsoft’s Strategic Maneuvering to Favor Edge Over Chrome on Bing

As the dominance of Google in both the search engine and browser markets continues to grow, Microsoft is adopting aggressive tactics to shift the balance in its favor. An earlier report from Windows Latest shed light on how Microsoft employs full-screen pop-ups to persuade users to switch from Google Chrome to Microsoft Edge. Recently, they have taken their strategy a step further: obscuring the Chrome download link on Bing’s search results page.

Microsoft Edge Google Chrome — Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

The New Search Bar Strategy

During a recent tracking session of Microsoft’s Edge and Bing experiments, Windows Latest uncovered that a prominent search bar now appears when users search for Google Chrome on Bing. While initially appearing to be a mere promotional tool, this tactic raises concerns about fair marketing practices.

This approach is a continuation of previously acceptable tactics like the ubiquitous Edge, Bing, and Copilot pop-ups that users encounter when accessing Google Chrome on Windows 11. However, Microsoft is now crossing into murky territory.

Concealing the Chrome Download Link

When logged out of a Microsoft account and searching for “Chrome”on Bing.com, users will see a deceptive banner promoting Microsoft Edge. This banner includes the message, “There’s no need to download a new web browser,”which has been in place for some time.

What has changed is the introduction of a blur effect, making the actual Chrome download link less noticeable. Instead, the focus shifts to the Microsoft Edge advertisement. Users may need to scroll to find the proper Chrome download page, which is conveniently placed after the Microsoft ad, enticing clicks on their promotion rather than the intended link.

A Sneaky Advertising Technique

This tactic borders on deceptive; Microsoft appears to be obscuring user choices while heavily promoting its browser. While critics might argue that users can click the “See More” button to access Google Chrome, this is particularly misleading for those less familiar with tech jargon. For many casual internet users, Bing and Google, as well as Edge and Chrome, might appear synonymous, increasing the risk that they’ll inadvertently choose Microsoft Edge over Chrome.

Hiding Google Search Results

In a previous report, it was noted how Microsoft may have blurred lines between Bing and Google in users’ minds. Rather than eliminating a misleading Google-like search bar on Bing, Microsoft has further entrenched its strategy by burying Google links deeper in the results.

When a user searches for Google on Bing, they are now presented with a “See More” button instead of straightforward links to the Google search. This approach exemplifies Microsoft’s aggressive advertising techniques and raises substantial concerns regarding anti-competitive behavior.

While some argue this is perfectly acceptable business strategy, it’s crucial to acknowledge that such tactics can result in diminished user experience and create barriers for competitors. It’s also worth mentioning that Google has employed its fair share of tactics that can be viewed as counterproductive for rival browsers, like throttling YouTube’s performance on platforms such as Firefox.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is Microsoft promoting Edge over Chrome?

Microsoft seeks to enhance the market share of Edge as part of its overarching strategy to reduce Google’s influence in search engines and browsers. By employing advertising techniques and manipulating search results, they aim to shift user preferences towards their browser.

2. How can I find the Google Chrome download link on Bing?

If searching for Google Chrome on Bing, scroll past the ads promoting Microsoft Edge. You may need to click the “See More” button to access the actual download link for Chrome.

3. Are these tactics legal?

While Microsoft’s strategies may raise ethical concerns, they often operate within legal boundaries. However, there are ongoing discussions about whether such practices constitute anti-competitive behavior, and regulatory bodies may scrutinize these tactics further.