Brazil's Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) has initiated an investigation into Microsoft following a formal complaint from Norwegian browser developer Opera. Opera alleges that Microsoft's practices surrounding its Edge browser on Windows operating systems constitute anti-competitive behavior, potentially stifling competition and limiting consumer choice.
On July 29, 2025, Opera filed a complaint with CADE, asserting that Microsoft pre-installs Edge as the default browser on all Windows devices. This practice, according to Opera, prevents rival browsers from competing fairly based on their merits. Opera's General Counsel, Aaron McParlan, stated, "Microsoft thwarts browser competition on Windows at every turn. First, browsers like Opera are locked out of important preinstallation opportunities. And then Microsoft frustrates users' ability to download and use alternative browsers." (reuters.com)
In Brazil's desktop browser market as of June 2025, Opera held a 6.78% share, while Microsoft's Edge accounted for 11.52%, and Google Chrome dominated with 75%. (reuters.com)
More recently, in July 2024, Opera challenged the European Commission's decision to exempt Edge from the Digital Markets Act, arguing that Microsoft's practices continue to hinder fair competition. (reuters.com)
As of now, Microsoft has not publicly responded to the complaint. The tech community and consumers alike await the results of CADE's investigation, which could reshape the dynamics of browser competition on Windows platforms.
Source: The Mighty 790 KFGO Microsoft in Brazilian antitrust regulator’s crosshairs after Opera complaint
Background of the Complaint
On July 29, 2025, Opera filed a complaint with CADE, asserting that Microsoft pre-installs Edge as the default browser on all Windows devices. This practice, according to Opera, prevents rival browsers from competing fairly based on their merits. Opera's General Counsel, Aaron McParlan, stated, "Microsoft thwarts browser competition on Windows at every turn. First, browsers like Opera are locked out of important preinstallation opportunities. And then Microsoft frustrates users' ability to download and use alternative browsers." (reuters.com)In Brazil's desktop browser market as of June 2025, Opera held a 6.78% share, while Microsoft's Edge accounted for 11.52%, and Google Chrome dominated with 75%. (reuters.com)
Allegations of Anti-Competitive Practices
Opera's complaint outlines several specific practices by Microsoft that it considers anti-competitive:- Exclusive Pre-Installation: Microsoft allegedly requires PC manufacturers to pre-install Edge exclusively, thereby eliminating opportunities for alternative browsers to be pre-installed. (olhardigital.com.br)
- User Interface Design: The company is accused of employing design tactics, often referred to as "dark patterns," that discourage users from downloading or setting alternative browsers as defaults. (windowscentral.com)
- Default Settings Manipulation: Even when users set a different browser as default, certain links and documents reportedly continue to open in Edge. (analyticsinsight.net)
- Incentives to Manufacturers: Microsoft is alleged to offer incentives to PC manufacturers to pre-install Edge exclusively on Windows devices. (reuters.com)
CADE's Response and Investigation
In response to Opera's complaint, CADE has opened an administrative inquiry and has set an August 15 deadline for Microsoft to respond to the allegations. The investigation will also examine Microsoft's licensing practices for its Windows operating system, Microsoft 365 software, and its Jumpstart program, which allows clients to build autonomous AI agents for routine tasks. (reuters.com)Historical Context and Previous Complaints
This is not the first time Opera has raised concerns about Microsoft's browser practices. In December 2007, Opera filed a complaint with the European Commission regarding Microsoft's bundling of Internet Explorer with Windows, which led to a €561 million fine for Microsoft. (reuters.com)More recently, in July 2024, Opera challenged the European Commission's decision to exempt Edge from the Digital Markets Act, arguing that Microsoft's practices continue to hinder fair competition. (reuters.com)
Implications for the Browser Market
The outcome of CADE's investigation could have significant implications for the browser market in Brazil and potentially set a precedent for other jurisdictions. If Microsoft's practices are found to be anti-competitive, the company may be required to alter its distribution and default settings policies, thereby fostering a more competitive environment for alternative browsers like Opera.As of now, Microsoft has not publicly responded to the complaint. The tech community and consumers alike await the results of CADE's investigation, which could reshape the dynamics of browser competition on Windows platforms.
Source: The Mighty 790 KFGO Microsoft in Brazilian antitrust regulator’s crosshairs after Opera complaint
