Windows 10 Now Warns Users Not to Install Chrome or Firefox

This is getting serious folks and also irritating.

https://www.extremetech.com/computi...now-warns-users-not-to-install-chrome-firefox

 

From all other columns I have read this is NOT a done deal, they are TESTING this period. Plus this really isn't even something new. These types of prompts have been included on Windows 10 since its release.

This is NOT something, IF it happens and that is a big IF, that would stop you from another browser it will just be a prompt reminding you that you have the option to use EDGE. Don't borrow trouble when there really isn't any. Prompts can be turned off of course in Windows 10

As this link shows, this is NOT something that will be included in the October update

"A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that this is indeed a test:

We've tested this functionality with Insiders only - The Windows Insider Program enables Microsoft to test different features, functionality and garner feedback before rolling out broadly. Customers remain in control and can choose the browser of their choice."​

 

That's deceiving because that is not what MS is doing.

When attempting to install Chrome or FF, you'd get a popup that said, "You already have Microsoft Edge - the safer, faster browser for Windows 10". Then it gives you the option to keep installing, and to disable that popup in the future.

Yes, MS wants us to use Edge - is that so bad? I don't think so. My Toshiba notebook wants me to only use a genuine Toshiba battery. My HP printer wants me to only use genuine HP ink and gives a stern warning if I insert aftermarket ink. And most irritating, IMO, is my HP printer gives this warning EVERY TIME I insert an aftermarket ink cartridge. I can't disable the warning even if I want too.

Even my Ford truck owners manual warns me to use genuine Ford motor oil and filters.

There is no way Microsoft will ever stop users from installing an alternative browser. They tried that years ago with IE6 and XP and ended up in front of Congress and the EU who were threatening to chop Microsoft Corporation up into tiny separate companies if they didn't cease immediately those "monopolistic" practices. So just as we can easily disable Windows Defender (in fact, it steps aside by itself if you install a 3rd party anti-malware solution ), we will always be able to install, and set as the default, an alternative browser.

Yes, it is irritating but as jholland1964 correctly notes, this is nothing new and certainly is not exclusive to Microsoft.

 

It certainly is NOT exclusive to MS. Use google search with any other browser and you often times will get a prompt to install Chrome. Bill has given other examples and you truly can find them everywhere and absolutely NOT just MS.
I truly understand much of this, a company has to protect its own interests in order to survive. Do we like it all, no probably not but if you or a family member works for a national company then remember, you are looking out for your family by supporting the company that is paying your salary. My husband works for a large US automaker, we buy cars made by that company.

 

It's not only messages on our computers but our cellphones with Android will suggest Chrome as a 1st option Browser. It doesn't stop you installing or using your choice!
Does Apple allow/enable Android to be installed on their iPhone?
Does Google allow/enable IOS on their Android phones?

 

https://www.howtogeek.com/fyi/micro...troll-windows-10-users-with-browser-warnings/
This should make you happy @rsinfo

 

I don't heed any warnings except from wife

 

I think the How-To Geek author was a bit harsh. There was no "fight"! There was no "battle". Microsoft did not run roughshod over its users or insist they were right and everyone else was wrong! Microsoft did not put up any resistance over this!

For one, this warning was only seen by a limited number of "Windows Insiders" - people who volunteered to receive pre-release versions of W10 just for the purpose of providing feedback to Microsoft about upcoming features and changes. And that's exactly what happened. The purpose of the program is not just to weed out bugs and potential problems, but also to "test the waters" to see how well something new might be received. Is it realistic to expect every single Microsoft proposal or idea be received with open arms? No!

Microsoft saw this idea would not be well received so instead of being bull-headed and pushing it out anyway - as the old Microsoft would have done - Microsoft pulled it. I see all that as a good thing. And IMO, Microsoft should be praised, not bashed.

 

I agree with you Bill. MS dipped their toes in the water and found it was cold. Compulsion these days makes for violent reaction/s. Even subtle suggestions can be construed and cause nasty results.
I tried Avira antivirus software on my XP comp a few years back and got so annoyed by the 'flash screen' appearing wanting me to upgrade to their Pro version that I completely uninstalled the software and would never advise anyone to try it!
We all have our own personal choices usually based on our own experiences and I like that option.