In the ever-evolving world of technology, one company that has consistently been at the forefront is Microsoft. Known for its innovative products and services, Microsoft has made significant contributions to the tech industry. One such contribution is the Microsoft Edge browser, a web browser that has been designed to offer a more streamlined, secure, and faster browsing experience. This article delves into the history of the Microsoft Edge browser, its launch, and the features that set it apart from other browsers.
The Birth of Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge was first announced by Microsoft on January 21, 2015, at a Windows 10 event. Initially, it was codenamed “Project Spartan,” a reference to the agile and powerful warriors of ancient Sparta. This codename was a hint at Microsoft’s intention to create a browser that was faster, lighter, and more efficient than its predecessor, Internet Explorer.
Official Launch of Microsoft Edge
The official launch of Microsoft Edge took place on July 29, 2015, alongside the release of Windows 10. Microsoft Edge was introduced as the default browser for Windows 10, replacing the long-standing Internet Explorer. The launch marked a significant shift in Microsoft’s approach to web browsing, with a focus on simplicity, speed, and security.
Features of Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge came with a host of features designed to enhance the user experience. Some of these features include:
- Integration with Cortana, Microsoft’s virtual assistant
- A reading mode that removes unnecessary clutter from web pages
- The ability to annotate web pages
- Improved security features
EdgeHTML: The Engine Behind Microsoft Edge
One of the key aspects that set Microsoft Edge apart from Internet Explorer was its rendering engine. Microsoft Edge was built on a new engine called EdgeHTML, a fork of Microsoft’s Trident engine. EdgeHTML was designed to be more compliant with web standards, leading to better performance and compatibility with websites.
Transition to Chromium
In December 2018, Microsoft announced that it would rebuild Edge on the Chromium open-source project, the same platform that powers Google Chrome. The move was aimed at improving web compatibility and reducing fragmentation for web developers. The Chromium-based version of Edge was officially released on January 15, 2020.
Microsoft Edge Today
Today, Microsoft Edge continues to evolve, with regular updates that introduce new features and improvements. It has gained a reputation for its speed, security, and ease of use, making it a popular choice among users. As of 2021, Microsoft Edge is the second most popular desktop browser, according to StatCounter.
In conclusion, the launch of Microsoft Edge marked a significant milestone in Microsoft’s journey in the tech industry. It represented a shift in focus towards creating a more user-friendly and efficient browsing experience. With its continuous evolution and improvement, Microsoft Edge is set to remain a key player in the world of web browsers.
