One browser that has been conspicuously missing from Android and iOS devices — whether you care or not — is Microsoft Edge. For the most part, the mobile OS giants tend to keep their browsers for their specific OSes, with the exception of Chrome. Given that Windows Phone appears to be all but dead and Microsoft Edge market share is slowly growing on Windows PCs (presumably due in part to Microsoft Rewards), it seems like a good time for Microsoft to try and edge (*groan*) in on the iOS and Android browser market.
Microsoft Edge for iOS and Android
According to Microsoft, one of the “most common requests” they hear from Windows 10 Microsoft Edge users is that “we want our browser experience to move to our phones.” As of today, that is a reality for iOS users, at least for those enrolled in the Windows Insider program. Part of the reason the Microsoft Edge for iOS previews are limited to the Windows Insiders is due to a beta restriction set forth by Apple.
Why? Because Apple limits beta to 10k people, we are initially limiting to Windows Insiders. Temporary restriction so we can test w PC https://t.co/Xt3SvudJtY
— Joe Belfiore (@joebelfiore) October 5, 2017
The purpose of bringing their browser to your iOS or Android device is to allow your browsing to follow you, regardless of device. Features including your Favorites and Reading List will be available between your PC and smartphone. Microsoft is hoping to get a leg up on other browsers by giving you the ability to start browsing a website on your phone and then “immediate[ly] open the page you’re looking at right on your PC.” Alternatively, you can also save it for later if you’re not near your PC.
While not available as of yet, the Microsoft Edge for Android preview will also be available soon.
Microsoft Launcher for Android
Microsoft has dabbled in Android launchers before with their Arrow Launcher developed in Microsoft Garage, the company’s experimental playground. As of today, Arrow is graduating into Microsoft Launcher. Based on Fluent design, the launcher offers customization, features a tailored feed, gesture support, and, of course, Continue on PC. The latter allows you to “seamlessly continue what you’re working on — whether it’s photos, documents and more — on your PC.”
If you’re interested in giving it a go, you can sign up to become a Beta Tester through the Google Play Store.
What do you think about Microsoft Edge coming to iOS and Android devices? What about the Microsoft Launcher for Android? Let us know in the comments below or on Google+, Twitter, or Facebook.
[button link=”https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2017/10/05/announcing-microsoft-edge-for-ios-and-android-microsoft-launcher/#HtE28vzOidcpPtgi.97″ icon=”fa-external-link” side=”left” target=”blank” color=”285b5e” textcolor=”ffffff”]Source: Windows Blogs[/button]
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