How to give the new Microsoft Edge a test run—and why you should

Microsoft's revamped Edge browser: A sneak peek

Microsoft's Edge browser, rebuilt from the ground up, is available for a test run. While still in early development, it offers a glimpse into the future of browsing. Expect some bugs, but the opportunity to experience Microsoft's advancements is here.

Why the change?

Every browser relies on a browser engine—the software translating website code into a viewable format. While differences between engines are less noticeable to users now, Microsoft's initial Edge used EdgeHTML. In late 2018, Microsoft transitioned to the Chromium open-source code powering Google Chrome, aiming for web standardization and developer ease. This means the new Edge shares a core with Chrome, but with distinct Microsoft features and design.

Testing the new Edge

Windows 10 users can download early builds from the Microsoft Edge Insider Channels page. Choose between the weekly-updated Dev channel (more stable) or the daily-updated Canary channel (for early features). A Beta channel, offering increased stability, is also planned. macOS and older Windows versions will receive test versions later.

After installation, choose "Start with your data" to import Chrome data (if applicable) or "Start from scratch."

Exploring Edge's features

New tabs offer three customizable styles: Inspirational (large background image), Informational (smaller image and news), and Focused (minimalistic). Microsoft account login syncs browsing data across devices. The main menu (three dots in the top right) provides access to bookmarks, history, downloads, extensions, etc.

Features like "Read aloud" and Chromecast casting are available.

Settings (in the Edge menu) allow for customization. Reset settings to restore defaults. The Profiles section manages Microsoft account syncing. Appearance settings control the Home button, Favorites bar, fonts, and font sizes. On startup, choose between a new tab, specific pages, or continuing from the previous session.

Privacy and services settings allow clearing browsing data and managing site permissions (camera, microphone, location, etc.).

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