Microsoft's new version of its Edge web browser is now generally available, meaning anybody can go and download it starting today. The new Microsoft Edge has been in the works since late 2018 and is built upon the open-source Chromium project, just like Google Chrome and Opera. The new browser is available today on Windows and macOS, with a Linux version coming soon.
The new browser will be rolling out in waves as an update that will replace the legacy version of Microsoft Edge over the next few months. If you don't want to wait, you can manually download the browser yourself today, and Windows will automatically replace the old Edge for you. All your data, including history, passwords, and more, will transfer over to the new browser with ease.
Now that Microsoft Edge is based on Chromium, it's more or less just like Google Chrome. If you're a Chrome user who didn't like the old Edge, you might want to give this new version of Edge a try, as it looks and feels like Chrome, but without all the Google-y bits. It also features the same excellent web performance and compatibility, meaning you shouldn't find the new Edge slowing down when browsing the web.
The new Microsoft Edge is also enterprise-ready, with features like integration with Azure Active Directory, Internet Explorer mode for rendering legacy webpages, privacy features, and more. It also supports the same extensions as Google Chrome, 4K video streaming on Netflix, and Dolby audio. More features are in the works, including a new Collections feature that will be available in the coming weeks.
Unlike the old Microsoft Edge, this new version will be updated on a six-week cadence with new features and enhancements. This means Edge is no longer tied to Windows 10 updates, which should mean faster innovation in the browser space. If you're a user of old Edge, I highly advise you give the new Edge a try as it really is an improvement in almost every regard.
If you use Google Chrome or another browser, I also recommend you give the new Edge a try. Unless you are fully invested in Google's ecosystem, the new Microsoft Edge is a real treat to use. It is privacy-focused, clean, and overall a great browser to use.
Further reading and information on Edge
- How to start using Microsoft Edge Chromium on Windows 10
- Microsoft Edge on Mac review: in time, a worthy Safari competitor
- The new Microsoft Edge review: It's actually good now
- Five ways to fix common problems with Microsoft Edge Chromium
- Microsoft Edge for Surface Pro X (ARM64) is now in the Insider Beta channel
