Opera is filing a complaint against Microsoft for using tactics that steer users toward Edge

In a significant move, Opera has filed a complaint against Microsoft in Brazil, alleging that the tech giant is using anti-competitive practices to steer users towards its Edge browser. The complaint, which was filed today, accuses Microsoft of employing "manipulative design tactics" to frustrate users' ability to download and use alternative browsers. According to Aaron McParlan, general counsel at Opera, "Microsoft thwarts browser competition on Windows at every turn," by locking out browsers like Opera from preinstallation opportunities and ignoring users' default browser choices in various ways. The complaint highlights several instances where Microsoft's practices have hindered competition, including opening PDF files or links in Outlook and Teams, and opening links through Windows features like Search or Widgets. Additionally, Opera notes that Microsoft uses "obtrusive banners and messages discouraging users from downloading alternative browsers" at the moment they are searching for those browsers on Edge. This complaint is particularly significant in Brazil, where Opera is a major player and has millions of loyal users. By filing the complaint in Brazil, Opera aims to challenge Microsoft's global practices and push for remedies that would allow PC manufacturers to preload alternative default browsers and halt the blocking of consumers from downloading other browsers. From a market analysis perspective, this complaint has significant implications for the browser market. Microsoft's Edge browser has been struggling to gain traction, and the company's tactics have been seen as an attempt to artificially inflate its user base. By challenging these practices, Opera is not only fighting for its own market share but also for the principles of fair competition. The economic impact of this complaint could be substantial, as it may lead to changes in Microsoft's business practices and potentially open up new opportunities for alternative browsers. If Opera is successful, it could also set a precedent for other companies to challenge similar anti-competitive practices. The history of complaints against Microsoft's browser behavior is long and complex. In 2007, Opera filed an antitrust complaint with the EU, which eventually led to the creation of the browser ballot screen, allowing Windows users to pick one of the 12 most popular browsers. Microsoft was also fined $730 million in 2013 for failing to include the ballot in Windows 7 Service Pack 1. More recently, Microsoft has faced criticism for its attempts to convince users to switch to Edge, including creating a spoofed Google UI to try and convince Bing users they were using Google. These tactics have been seen as desperate attempts to boost Edge's user base, and Opera's complaint is the latest challenge to Microsoft's practices. In terms of practical business insights, this complaint highlights the importance of fair competition in the tech industry. Companies like Opera and Google rely on a level playing field to compete with giants like Microsoft. By challenging anti-competitive practices, these companies can help ensure that users have a genuine choice when it comes to browsers and other software. The outcome of this complaint will be closely watched by the industry, and its implications could be far-reaching. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that companies prioritize fair competition and user choice, rather than resorting to manipulative tactics to gain an advantage. In conclusion, Opera's complaint against Microsoft is a significant development in the ongoing battle for browser supremacy. By challenging Microsoft's anti-competitive practices, Opera is fighting not only for its own market share but also for the principles of fair competition. The outcome of this complaint will have significant implications for the browser market, and its impact could be felt across the tech industry. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential that companies prioritize user choice and fair competition, rather than resorting to manipulative tactics to gain an advantage.