Microsoft’s Unfair Edge: Rivals Argue for Antitrust Action

Microsoft’s Unfair Edge: Rivals Argue for Antitrust Action
Three rival browsers—Vivaldi, Waterfox, and Wavebox—along with the Open Web Advocacy group, have written an open letter to the European Commission, urging them to subject Microsoft’s Edge browser to strict EU antitrust regulations. They argue that Edge enjoys an unfair advantage, bolstering the legal challenge filed by Norwegian browser company, Opera. The letter highlights the various unfair practices employed by Edge within the Windows ecosystem, which remains unchecked by the choice screens available on mobile devices. The default status of Edge on all Windows computers grants it an unparalleled distribution advantage that no platform-independent browser can match.
DMA Exemption and Pop-Up Controversy
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) aims to level the playing field for online services, facilitating consumer choice. However, the European Commission’s exemption of Edge from the DMA’s provisions has drawn criticism from rivals, who believe it perpetuates an unfair landscape. The letter also accuses Edge of mischaracterizing the features of rival browsers through pop-up messages, potentially misleading users about the unique offerings of other web browsers.
Commission’s Stance and Market Share
The European Commission and Microsoft have declined to comment on these allegations. Data from StatCounter reveals that Edge’s global market share stands at approximately 5%, while Google’s Chrome dominates with a 66% share.
Implications for Opera’s Lawsuit
The support for Opera’s lawsuit by Vivaldi, Waterfox, Wavebox, and the Open Web Advocacy group strengthens the case against Microsoft. The Norwegian company alleges that Edge’s exemption from the DMA constitutes an abuse of market dominance, restricting competition and hindering innovation in the web browser market.
DMA’s Significance
The DMA aims to regulate the behavior of large online platforms, known as gatekeepers, that serve as crucial gateways for businesses to reach consumers. By imposing transparency and accountability measures, the EU hopes to foster a more competitive and equitable digital market.
Vivaldi, Waterfox, Wavebox, and Open Web Advocacy’s Statement
“It is paramount that the Commission reconsiders its position,” they wrote in their letter. “Unfair practices are currently allowed to persist on the Windows’ ecosystem with respect to Edge, unmitigated by the choice screens that exist on mobile.”
Unmatched Distribution Advantage and Gateway Role
“No platform independent browser can aspire to match Edge’s unparalleled distribution advantage on Windows,” they argue. “Edge is, moreover, the most important gateway for consumers to download an independent browser on Windows PCs.”
Call for Remedial Action
The letter implores the European Commission to reevaluate its stance towards Edge and take measures to address the alleged unfair practices, bringing the tech giant under the regulatory umbrella of the DMA.