Microsoft is testing a built-in cryptocurrency wallet for Edge, according to a screenshot taken from a beta build of the browser.This feature stating the screenshot is strictly for internal testing was discovered by Twitter user @thebookisclosedhas a history of digging into existing but disabled features from newer Windows 11 builds to older Windows Vista betas.
This is just one of the many money- and shopping-related features Microsoft added to Edge since it was reborn as a Chromium-based browser a few years ago. In late 2021, the company faced backlash after adding a “buy now, pay later” short-term lending feature to Edge. And as an Edge user, the first thing I do on a new Windows installation is disable the endless coupon codes, price comparisons, and cashback popups generated by shopping in Microsoft Edge (many settings are set to Edge automatically synced between browsers). Your default search engine and all these shopping add-ons must be changed manually each time).
According to the screenshot, the cryptocurrency wallet is “built right into Edge, so it’s easy to use without installing extensions,” and it can handle multiple types of cryptocurrencies. It also records transactions and fluctuating individual currency values. The “Explore” tab offers news articles related to cryptocurrencies, while the “Assets” tab offers a loving look at NFTs. Wallets are “non-custodial” (also known as “self-custody”). This means that you are the owner and responsible for the passwords and recovery keys that enable you to access your funds. If you lose your credentials, Microsoft will not be able to get you back.
Whether these kinds of add-ons are useful, annoying, or predatory is a matter of perspective. There may be some value in having a “trustworthy” built-in option that doesn’t. It can also encourage you to start exploring the world.
This is also another example of Microsoft building features into web browsers that aren’t strictly related to browsing.many of these features can Competing browsers such as Chrome and Firefox are all looking to add value and generate revenue by building new niche features and access to third-party services. But Microsoft’s move still has the potential to have far-reaching implications that merit further scrutiny. Edge is installed by default on all Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs, is a non-removable component, and the operating system will periodically prompt you to switch to Edge. Once in Edge, the browser will prompt you to use Bing and other Microsoft services.
Microsoft may not ship crypto wallets to Edge users. Microsoft regularly tests features of Edge, Windows, and other software, but they never end up in general release versions. We have contacted Microsoft for more information and will update when we have a response.
Exhibition image @thebookisclosed/Twitter
