Opera Files Antitrust Complaint Against Microsoft in Brazil Over Edge Browser Dominance
Opera has filed an antitrust complaint against Microsoft in Brazil, accusing the tech giant of creating unfair competition for alternative browsers on Windows. The Norway-based company claims Microsoft secures exclusive deals to pre-install Edge on Windows devices, making it harder for rivals like Opera to gain traction. Additionally, Opera alleges Microsoft employs design tactics and dark patterns to discourage users from downloading competing browsers.
The complaint was submitted to Brazil’s Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE), urging the regulator to take action against Microsoft’s practices. Opera argues that Microsoft systematically blocks competition by preventing other browsers from securing pre-installation opportunities while also making it difficult for users to switch to alternatives.
Aaron McParlan, Opera’s general counsel, stated that Microsoft actively thwarts browser competition by locking out rivals from key installation opportunities and complicating the process of downloading competing software. This, Opera claims, stifles innovation and limits consumer choice.
This is not the first legal clash between the two companies. In 2007, Opera sued Microsoft in the European Union, arguing that bundling Internet Explorer with Windows was anticompetitive. More recently, Opera pushed for Microsoft to be designated as a gatekeeper under the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which would impose stricter regulations on Edge. That case against the European Commission is still ongoing.
Opera’s latest move in Brazil highlights the ongoing battle over browser competition, as tech giants face increasing scrutiny over their dominance in key software markets. The outcome of this complaint could influence how Microsoft and other companies approach pre-installed software in the future.
Update, July 30, 2025: Corrected the status of Opera’s case against the European Commission.
