Over The Edge 2.0: what independent researchers found about browser choice on Windows

Mozilla commissioned independent researchers Dr. Harry Brignull and Cennydd Bowles to revisit their 2022 'Over The Edge' report on Microsoft's browser choice practices on Windows. The updated report (Over The Edge 2.0) covers Windows 10 and 11 across four regions (USA, India, UK, Germany/EEA) and examines how Copilot AI features are used to steer users toward Edge. The core finding: Microsoft still uses coercive, deceptive, and manipulative design patterns to prevent users from freely choosing alternative browsers. The one exception is the EEA, where the Digital Markets Act has forced Microsoft to remove some harmful tactics — proving the company is capable of fairer design but chooses not to apply it globally.