The browser war of the late '90s, where microsoft faced significant antitrust challenges due to its promotion of Internet Explorer, has resurfaced with a twist. This time, microsoft, under CEO satya Nadella's leadership and with a robust AI strategy, is taking the initiative, shifting the dynamics of the competition.


Currently, google is facing scrutiny as it aligns with the Browser Choice Alliance (BCA), which comprises Opera, Vivaldi, and other smaller browser developers. This coalition aims to pressure microsoft into ceasing its alleged unfair practices, particularly the promotion of its Edge browser through Windows. The BCA claims that microsoft is integrating its AI-powered Copilot assistant into Edge, providing users with advanced features like tab management and task automation. Moreover, they accuse microsoft of employing "dark patterns," such as issuing warning messages when users attempt to download rival browsers or automatically setting Edge as the default browser after system resets.


The stakes are high, as google, a key financial supporter of BCA, faces declining market share in search. According to StatCounter, Google's search market share dipped below 90% for the first time since 2015, falling to 89.73% in december 2024. This decline is attributed to rising competition in AI-driven search engines.


Regulatory scrutiny is also intensifying. In Europe, BCA has lodged a complaint against microsoft for allegedly circumventing new competition regulations. Similarly, in Brazil, Opera has accused microsoft of harassing users wishing to switch browsers.


This renewed browser war underscores not only the fierce competition among tech giants but also the broader fight for user choice and control in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.


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Kokila Chokkanathan

15/08/2025 01:12 PM