Microsoft Aims for One Billion Users with Rebuilt Edge Browser
Microsoft is betting big on its new Chromium-based Edge browser, setting an ambitious goal of one billion users. The company rebuilds the browser to tackle modern problems in privacy, security, and enterprise compatibility.
Microsoft sets an ambitious goal of reaching one billion users with its new Chromium-based Edge browser. Corporate vice president Chuck Friedman admits the company faced an existential crisis with the old Edge, as the team struggled to find a compelling reason for users to choose it over competitors. This desperation leads Microsoft to rebuild the browser from the ground up using the Chromium engine to solve compatibility issues.
Instead of solving the problems of the past five years, the Edge team focuses entirely on the challenges of the next five. Friedman, who previously helped fix the Windows 10 user experience after the missteps of Windows 8, sees the browser as a critically important product for Microsoft's future. A major part of this forward-looking strategy involves giving users better tools to protect their personal information while surfing the web.
Privacy and security become central focuses for the new browser as Microsoft recognizes the high cost users pay for open access to online information. The Edge team integrates these privacy features directly with the broader Microsoft suite of products to create a more cohesive experience. The official version 1.0 of this revamped browser is scheduled to reach users in January.