Microsoft Accused of Anticompetitive Practices by Opera in Controversial Move Regarding Browser Competition

Microsoft is accused of employing “anticompetitive practices” by Opera, allegedly forcing Windows users to utilize the Edge browser.

On Tuesday, Opera asserted that Microsoft’s tactics are both unjustified and detrimental to user experience, with these practices becoming increasingly severe. The Norwegian-based company submitted a petition to Brazil’s Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE), claiming that this issue transcends regional boundaries. At the heart of the matter is Microsoft’s longstanding practice of preinstalling Edge and designating it as the default browser on Windows devices.

In addition, Opera contends that the complaint encompasses multiple manipulative design tactics or “dark patterns” employed by Microsoft which intentionally guide Windows PC users away from alternative browsers towards Edge, while making it difficult for users to change defaults.

According to Opera, Windows displays “obtrusive banners and messages discouraging users from downloading alternate browsers” when they begin searching for them on Edge. Furthermore, Windows automatically opens PDFs and other documents with Edge rather than third-party browsers.

Opera’s concerns are shared by numerous alternative browser providers, as stated without further explanation. By filing the formal complaint, Opera aims to prompt CADE to investigate Microsoft and implement remedies aimed at fostering a fair and equitable market for browser providers.

Microsoft did not respond immediately to a request for comment. In the European Union, however, the company has adhered to recent fair competition regulations, allowing local users to uninstall Edge from Windows. Over a decade ago, Microsoft in the EU even had to display a “web browser choice screen,” enabling Windows users to choose from various browsers.

It remains uncertain whether Opera intends to take similar action in the US. However, the company has been advocating for EU courts to designate Edge as a “gatekeeper service,” subjecting it to tighter regulations.

At present, Edge holds a 13% share of the desktop market, while Google’s Chrome maintains its dominant position with a near 67% share, according to Statcounter. Opera’s market share stands at 2.6%.