Although it's shared some information, Microsoft hasn't exactly been that open with its Chromium-based Edge browser, but new details have now emerged.
Back in December, the company announced that it'll be switching to Chromium, the open source project on which Google Chrome is based. Now, Microsoft has confirmed that the next version of Edge will feature a so-called Internet Explorer mode, which apparently allows users to visit and run old website that don't support modern browser standards.
Edge To Get Internet Explorer Mode
For most consumers, that's probably not that exciting. But it's a godsend for corporate staff and their IT departments, especially since most offices are stuck with using ancient web apps. The new chromium-based Edge will have the feature directly, which will make use of the Internet Explorer engine.
"What we're going to do is make this totally seamless," said Microsoft's Joe Belfiore, in an interview with The Verge. Currently, Edge opens Internet Explorer on Windows 10, which is a separate browser altogether complete with its own interface, favorites, and settings. This new browser will load the content within Edge, so users would never be able to tell the difference except for the small Internet Explorer logo on the tab that indicates the mode is switched on.
The feature, according to Belfiore, is part of Microsoft's plan to lure users away from using too many browsers at the same time. Thus, Internet Explorer mode will encourage them to just use Edge instead of a combination of Chrome and Internet Explorer.
"We've got a browser for you that updates regularly that will go on Windows 7 and the Mac that handles things like IT customization of the New Tab page and Microsoft Search, and IE built-in."
New Tab Page Customizations
In addition to the new tab in question, Microsoft will also allow corporate users to customize the New Tab page on Edge. They will be able to input a custom company logo, for starters, and have the option to load some sites into the top tabs. It will also involve Microsoft Search and Office 365 integration.
Microsoft is also developing a new Collections feature for its Chromium-based Edge, which will allow users to more easily collect text, images, and information and transcribe them all into a note. The content will even link the original websites they were lifted off of. Users will then be able to share notes with friends or family, or export them as Word or Excel files.
To find out more, sign up to be an Edge insider. There's no telling when the new browser might be released, but make sure to check back with Tech Times as we learn more.
