Microsoft U-turn on cautioning users to AVOID installing Google Chrome

Microsoft appears to have performed a sharp U-tun over plans to introduce a warning message in Windows 10 to discourage the installation of rival web browsers.

Reports emerged last week the warning message was been trialled in an early beta version of the operating system.

The pop-up appeared when Windows Insider Program users tried to install a browser developed by a third-party firm, including Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox.

The message was an effort to promote Microsoft’s own Edge web browser, which comes bundled with its latest operating system.

However, the warning message has now been removed from the beta testing version, according to reports that have emerged from members of the trial group.

Microsoft was including a warning that cautioned Windows 10 users to avoid installing browsers from rival companies. The operating system was showing the pictured pop-up warning when you attempt to install

WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR PC INTERNET BROWSERS?

  1. Google Chrome – 67.63 per cent
  2. Mozilla Firefox – 10.97 per cent
  3. Internet Explorer – 7.02 per cent
  4. Apple Safari – 5.13 per cent
  5. Microsoft Edge – 4.24 per cent
  6. Opera – 2.48 per cent

Source: Statcounter

When users with the latest version of the operating system attempted to install third-party web browsers, it would display a pop-up warning.

‘You already have Microsoft Edge – the safer, faster browser for Windows 10,’ the warning message told trial users. 

However, the latest beta build of Windows 10 – Insider Preview Build 17760 – no longer interrupts the installation of rival browsers, users report.

In a statement at the time, Microsoft said the warning was being tested with users who are part of its ‘Insiders’ beta initiative.

The warnings did not stop any software being installed. 

‘The Windows Insider Program enables Microsoft to test different features, functionality and garner feedback before rolling out broadly,’ a spokesman said last week. 

‘Customers remain in control and can choose the browser of their choice.’ 

Not everyone was happy with the prospect of their decision to use third party browsers – which are far more popular with users than Edge – being questioned.

Writing on Twtitter, Texas based software developer Sean Hoffman said: ‘@MicrosoftEdge What kind of slimy marketing cesspool c**p is this Microsoft? 

‘I proceed to launch the Firefox installer and Windows 10 pops this up? If I wanted to use your browser, I would.’

This isn’t the first time that the firm has attempted to curtail its customers from using other web browsers. 

Last year, Microsoft debuted its streamlined Windows 10 S operating system, which debuted on its Surface laptop, that would not allow users to install a third-party web browsers.

It followed rumours that Microsoft is working on a new subscription model for Windows 10 customers that will allow the company to automatically take care of any glitches.

Not everyone was happy with the prospect of their decision to use third party browsers like Chrome (logo pictured) - which are far more popular with users than Edge - being questioned

Not everyone was happy with the prospect of their decision to use third party browsers like Chrome (logo pictured) – which are far more popular with users than Edge – being questioned

The Redmond-based technology company currently pushes-out updates with new features to its Windows 10 users twice a year.

However, users have bemoaned the updates, which have been plagued with errors.

Earlier this year, Microsoft was forced to delay its April 2018 update after beta testers unearthed a serious glitch that caused computers with Intel-branded solid state drives to crash. 

When the patched update rolled-out, it contained a glitch that triggered the machine to freeze when users opened up the Google Chrome browser.

To solve the problem, Microsoft is reportedly looking to launch a new feature known as Microsoft Managed Desktop – although no release date has been confirmed. 

The system will sell the Windows 10 operating system as a service, where users pay a monthly subscription fee to use the latest version of the software, with any glitches and bugs ironed out immediately by Microsoft.

HOW DO YOU UPDATE WINDOWS 10?

Windows 10 every so often checks for updates so you don’t have to.

When an update is available, it’s automatically downloaded and installed, keeping your device up to date with the latest features.

To check for updates manually, select the Start button, and then go to Settings > Update & security > Windows Update, and select Check for updates.

If Windows Update says your device is up to date, you have all the updates that are currently available. 

Read more at DailyMail.co.uk