Crypto Wallet Prototype Found in Microsoft Edge Browser
Microsoft may not be the first company that comes to mind when you think of blockchain, but it has been experimenting with blockchain technology for several years. Recently, screenshots shared on Twitter by Albacore, a pseudonymous software researcher from central Europe, reveal that Microsoft has integrated a non-custodial crypto wallet into its Edge browser.
The code added by Microsoft includes a user interface for a cryptocurrency wallet, a decentralized application explorer, a news feed, and the ability to buy cryptocurrency through Coinbase and MoonPay. However, the integration is currently hidden and not accessible to users.
Albacore has cautioned that Microsoft often builds and tests various features that never see the light of day. Nonetheless, he confirmed that the Edge wallet functions correctly, which could indicate that a rollout of this feature is not out of the question. Albacore also believes that Microsoft’s move into crypto wallets may be an attempt to offer similar products to its closest rival, Brave Browser, a privacy-focused browser that provides Web3 functionality.
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Microsoft’s Edge browser was launched after it discontinued Internet Explorer last year. The move by Microsoft to integrate a crypto wallet could be seen as an attempt to keep up with its rivals in the industry. Although Microsoft has been experimenting with blockchain technology for many years, it has also worked with others to move into this emerging industry, including leading a $20 million strategic round into Space and Time, a Web3 data warehouse, in September.
Microsoft has not confirmed any aspect of its Edge crypto wallet development but stated that it regularly tests new features to explore new experiences for its customers. Overall, Microsoft’s move into crypto wallets could indicate a potential shift towards the adoption of blockchain technology by tech giants in the future.
