Microsoft has quietly discontinued a controversial feature on Bing that mimicked Google’s search interface, following backlash earlier this month. Users who searched for "Google" on Bing encountered a page resembling Google’s homepage, complete with a doodle-like image and a search bar styled similarly to Google's. This imitation went so far as to scroll down automatically, hiding Bing's own search bar.
While Microsoft has not officially commented on the matter, Google’s response was sharp. Parisa Tabriz, head of Chrome, criticized Microsoft on X, stating:
“Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but Microsoft spoofing the Google homepage is another tactic in its long history of tricks to confuse users & limit choice. New year; new low Microsoft.”
A Pattern of Manipulative Tactics
Microsoft has faced criticism in the past for tactics aimed at promoting Bing and Edge:
- Pop-ups in Google Chrome: Previously used to encourage users to switch to Edge, prompting Microsoft to later address these as “unintended behavior.”
- Altering Chrome download sites: Modifications aimed at dissuading users from downloading competing browsers.
- Persistent system notifications: Described as "malware-like" by some, urging users to adopt Microsoft defaults.
The fake Google UI disappeared from Bing search results just days after it was discovered by Reddit users, suggesting Microsoft may have pulled it in response to public scrutiny.
Microsoft’s attempts to boost Bing’s usage have drawn criticism over their perceived underhandedness, with this latest incident reinforcing concerns about ethical boundaries in competition.
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