Microsoft, one of the world’s leading software companies, is reportedly testing the integration of a crypto wallet in its web browser, Edge. According to a recent report from BleepingComputer, the tech giant is exploring the possibility of adding a Microsoft crypto wallet to its Edge browser, which would allow users to securely store and manage their cryptocurrencies directly within the browser.
Microsoft Edge
The development of a crypto wallet in Edge would mark a significant step towards mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies, as it would enable users to access the benefits of blockchain technology without the need for additional software or hardware. Additionally, the integration of a crypto wallet in Edge would make it easier for users to interact with decentralised applications (dApps) on the Web3 network.
The company is currently testing the Microsoft crypto wallet feature in Edge using the Rinkeby testnet, a test network for the Ethereum blockchain. The testnet allows developers to experiment with smart contracts and other blockchain features without using real cryptocurrency. The report also suggests that Microsoft may be exploring the integration of other Web3 tools and features in Edge, such as decentralised exchanges, NFT’s and token swapping protocols with partners such as Coinbase and Moonpay.
While Microsoft has not yet made any official announcement regarding the development of a crypto wallet in Edge, the company’s interest in blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies is well-known. In 2019, Microsoft announced the release of its Azure Blockchain Service, which allows customers to deploy and manage blockchain networks on the Azure cloud platform. The service supports a wide range of blockchain protocols, including Ethereum, Hyperledger Fabric, and Corda.
The development of a Microsoft crypto wallet in Edge would also put Microsoft in direct competition with other web browsers that have already integrated crypto wallet features. For example, Brave, a privacy-focused web browser, has its own built-in crypto wallet, which allows users to securely store and manage a variety of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and BAT. Similarly, Opera, another popular web browser, has a built-in crypto wallet that supports Ethereum and other ERC-20 tokens.
Security
Despite the potential benefits of integrating a crypto wallet in Edge, there are also some concerns regarding the security and privacy implications of such a feature. Storing cryptocurrencies in a browser-based wallet may make them vulnerable to hacking and phishing attacks, as well as potentially exposing users’ private keys to third-party trackers. As such, Microsoft will need to ensure that the wallet feature is adequately secured and that users’ privacy is protected.