Microsoft has launched a bold new strategy to keep users loyal to its Edge browser, offering free gift cards and rewards points to those who resist the urge to download Google Chrome.
Microsoft’s New Loyalty Push
According to a report from Windows Latest, some Windows 11 users who search for “Chrome” using Bing within Microsoft Edge are now greeted with a message offering 1,300 Microsoft Rewards points if they keep using Edge instead of installing Google Chrome.
This promotional banner appears at the top of Bing’s search results, labeled “Promoted by Microsoft.” It effectively pushes Chrome’s download link further down the page.
Depending on your region, these points can be exchanged for Amazon, Roblox, or Spotify Premium gift cards—or even donated to charities and NGOs through the Microsoft Rewards portal.
In short, Microsoft is literally paying users to stay with Edge.
Why This Matters
This marks a clear shift in Microsoft’s marketing tactics, moving from passive pop-ups to a reward-based strategy. Edge currently controls less than 9% of the global browser market, while Google Chrome dominates with more than 70%.
The tech giant hopes that offering tangible perks will finally convince users to give Edge a real chance. Unlike Chrome, Edge comes preloaded with AI features, a built-in VPN, vertical tabs, and deep integration with Microsoft 365 and Copilot AI.
A Targeted Strategy: No Rewards for Firefox or Opera
Interestingly, there are no similar promotions for other browsers such as Firefox, Opera, or Brave, suggesting this campaign is specifically aimed at slowing Chrome’s dominance.
When some users repeated the same search in other browsers, the reward offer didn’t appear. Instead, they only received a basic message saying,
“Microsoft Edge runs on the same technology as Chrome, with the added trust of Microsoft.”
This makes it clear the campaign is exclusive to Bing searches made inside Edge, showing just how far Microsoft is willing to go to retain users within its ecosystem.
How the Reward System Works
If you search for Chrome using Bing in Edge, a banner appears offering you 1,300 Microsoft Rewards points if you continue with Edge.
Typically, 1,000–1,500 points equal about $1 USD in value. So, while 1,300 points isn’t a huge amount, it’s still a symbolic gesture of loyalty—a small push that might make you reconsider before clicking “Download Chrome.”
Users can redeem their points for:
- Amazon gift cards
- Roblox credit
- Spotify subscriptions
- Xbox or Microsoft Store credit
- Donations to charities
The Bigger Picture: Browser Wars 2.0
Browser competition is nothing new. Google continually reminds users to set Chrome as their default browser, while Apple heavily promotes Safari on its devices.
Microsoft’s approach, however, blends monetary rewards with AI-driven productivity tools, transforming Edge from just a browser into a complete productivity hub.
Still, some critics argue that this tactic blurs the line between user engagement and aggressive promotion, especially since it’s displayed directly within Bing and Edge—both Microsoft-controlled platforms.
Should You Take the Offer?
If the banner shows up for you, there’s really no downside to accepting. You can earn some reward points, try out Edge’s speed and AI features, and still switch later if you prefer Chrome.
Edge now offers:
- Built-in tracking protection
- Vertical tabs for multitasking
- Reading mode and read-aloud tools
- AI Copilot integration
- Enhanced security and VPN options
For those already part of the Microsoft Rewards ecosystem, this is simply an extra bonus. For new users, it’s a clever way to test-drive Edge’s features while earning something tangible.
Final Thoughts
While 1,300 points won’t make you rich, the move symbolizes Microsoft’s renewed confidence in Edge. It shows the company is willing to pay real money to keep users on its platform—a bold tactic in the ongoing browser wars.
As AI tools, security, and performance become more important than raw speed, Edge could slowly turn into a genuine alternative to Chrome—especially when Microsoft starts rewarding loyalty directly.
