Mozilla accuses Microsoft of using dark patterns to force Edge usage

Mozilla has released a report accusing Microsoft of using harmful design techniques and 'dark patterns' to prioritize the Edge browser on Windows 11. The organization claims that Microsoft is not upholding its 2023 commitment to respect user choice regarding app pinning and browser defaults.

According to Mozilla counsel Kush Amlani, Microsoft has been unresponsive to direct discussions and appears to be doing only the minimum required by law. While European regulations under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) have forced Microsoft to allow default browsers to open links in the Start menu, these changes have not been implemented in other jurisdictions.

Mozilla is calling for Microsoft to release the more user-centric version of Windows, currently available in Europe, to the rest of the world to ensure consistent browser choice globally.