Redmond, Washington – Microsoft is once again prompting users of Google’s Chrome browser to switch to their search engine Bing. This move comes after the software giant previously introduced pop-up notifications in Windows 10 and 11, which users found intrusive.
Recent reports show that Windows users are once again seeing pop-ups inside Google Chrome, urging them to make Bing their default search engine. The prompts, which resemble malware according to some users, have sparked concerns about their legitimacy. Microsoft has verified that these pop-ups are legitimate and should only appear once.
Caitlin Roulston, the director of communications at Microsoft, explained that the pop-ups are a one-time notification offering users the choice to set Bing as their default search engine in Chrome. She emphasized that Microsoft values providing customers with options and that users can dismiss the notification if they prefer.
Despite Microsoft’s claims of providing choice to users, some critics argue that the company should offer an easy way to disable these pop-ups permanently. There have been various methods employed by Microsoft to encourage users to switch to Bing and Edge, making it challenging for users to avoid these prompts through simple settings adjustments.
Over the years, Microsoft has been criticized for its aggressive attempts to push its services through pop-up ads on Chrome. This includes tactics like promoting services in the Windows taskbar and coercing users to switch to Microsoft Edge. Furthermore, Windows users have reported instances where Microsoft Edge automatically imported browsing data from Chrome without their consent following a Windows update.
As frustrations grow with Microsoft’s persistent efforts to sway users towards their products, the debate continues about the company’s approach. Users are left questioning whether Microsoft will shift its strategy and truly respect users’ choices regarding search engines and browsers.