Microsoft is reportedly using deception as fair game to get Windows 11 users to switch to Bing

Microsoft is reportedly using deception as fair game to get Windows 11 users to switch to Bing

What you need to know

  • Reports indicate Microsoft is using the Bing Wallpaper app to get Windows 11 users to switch to Bing as the “recommended browser settings” for fast and secure search results.
  • Users who accepted the changes indicated that Microsoft’s Bing extension was sideloaded to Google Chrome.
  • Windows Central can’t independently verify these claims but has reached out for a comment from Google.

As a seasoned tech enthusiast who has witnessed the evolution of the digital landscape over the past few decades, I find Microsoft’s latest moves intriguing and somewhat amusing. The company’s persistent efforts to promote its own services, like Bing and Edge, are reminiscent of a dog with a bone, refusing to let go.


Microsoft’s Bing and Edge may not be leading in their areas, but Windows holds the largest share of the desktop operating system market at 72.08%. Earlier this year, Mozilla criticized Microsoft for allegedly employing unfair designs and misleading strategies to give Edge an edge over other browsers on Windows platforms. Recently, Microsoft has been promoting Edge to Windows 11 users by displaying a 3D banner that highlights the browser’s integrated security features as a reason to make it their default browser choice.

It appears that Microsoft might have a couple more surprises in store, with rumors suggesting they could be using their Bing Wallpaper app to suggest preferred browser settings. Although we can’t confirm these reports ourselves, it is said that the tech giant may propose setting Bing as the default search engine within Windows 11 for quick and secure search results through a pop-up notification.

Why is my wallpaper application recommending browser settings? from r/Windows11

In an attempt to recreate the situation on my computer, I couldn’t succeed. It’s essential to note that the Bing Wallpaper application comes with additional offers already selected by default, such as setting Bing as your homepage and search engine. If you don’t prefer this configuration, remember to uncheck these options before installing the app.

Microsoft is reportedly using deception as fair game to get Windows 11 users to switch to Bing

According to a Reddit post, choosing Microsoft’s suggested settings could lead to the Bing extension being installed automatically within Google Chrome. If accurate, this move might be part of Microsoft’s strategy to encourage more users to switch from Google services to Bing, even extending Bing compatibility to Google Chrome in Windows operating systems.

The person who reported the problem belongs to the Preview Group of Microsoft Insiders. Since the problem seems to only affect this group, a solution could potentially be on its way. We’ve contacted Microsoft for an official announcement regarding the issue, and will provide additional details as soon as we receive more information.

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2024-08-07 20:08