Microsoft is once again trying to steer users toward its Bing search engine by using a deceptive tactic. If you search for “Google” on Bing without signing into a Microsoft account, the search results page mimics Google’s interface closely. This trick includes a search bar, an image resembling a Google Doodle, and even small text beneath the bar, making it look like a Google page. While Bing still provides search results for Google, the interface is designed to resemble Google’s homepage. The intent is clear: Microsoft is attempting to create a more familiar experience for users to encourage them to stick with Bing.
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This tactic is particularly noticeable for new PC users searching for Google in Microsoft Edge, where the page initially mimics Google’s UI. Google’s Chrome head, Parisa Tabriz, expressed her frustration on X, calling it “another tactic in Microsoft’s long history of tricks to confuse users & limit choice.”
Microsoft has a history of aggressive strategies to push users toward its services, including altering Chrome download pages, displaying pop-up ads in Google Chrome on Windows, and even deploying malware-like pop-ups. While Google also promotes Chrome over Edge, its tactics are less intrusive compared to Microsoft’s operating system-level interference.
