Microsoft to Now Embed Crypto Wallet & NFT Features in Edge

Reports say Microsoft can soon allow crypto transactions via their web browser in an upcoming feature. BleepingComputer’s software documenter Albacore first reported this exciting news in a Tweet. Some screenshots of a new Ethereum (ETH) wallet were shared, which will soon be integrated into Microsoft’s Edge browser.

Newest in the gauntlet of questionable upcoming Microsoft Edge features, a crypto wallet 💸
Not really sure how to feel about this kind of thing being baked into the default browser, what are your thoughts?
More screenshots of the UI in the next tweet ➡️ pic.twitter.com/GAUPiZGLIY
— Albacore (@thebookisclosed) March 17, 2023

Microsoft to get Crypto Edge

In their Tweet, Albacore seemed excited about the upcoming feature, which would be offered by Microsoft Edge, their default web browser. This shall be among the rare instance where a feature like this is introduced into the default web browser. If it works correctly, this step from the tech giant could start a new era of crypto adoption.

The onboarding pages in the tweet suggest that Microsoft could soon be rolling out a non-custodial crypto wallet giving users exclusive control over their private keys and assets.

The embedded Non-custodial Wallet

After the recent crypto collapses like the FTX-saga and others, a wild debate regarding the custody of assets began. Although such an incident crippled the industry, the root cause that emerged was excess power in the hands of a select few. Thus, several attempts are being made to boost the non-custodial and fully decentralized scenarios after this.

The non-custodial wallet will be embedded in Edge; this eliminates the need for the installation of any extensions or links. As Edge has a strong reputation and is believed to be trustworthy, along with the fact that it has been used by millions daily, it can vastly improve crypto exposure.

Microsoft is trying to get NFT Edge

Images shared on Twitter, hints that the new feature will also support NFT marketplace browsing. It would also allow a news feed feature, relaying news and the latest information about the industry. Interestingly, the features will also allow the users to choose between two options:

They can use the built-in Edge wallet, or
They can use the extension wallet to manage their assets.

A Microsoft spokesperson while speaking with Bleeping Computer,said that the company loves testing new features, allowing its customers to explore new experiences. They are always eager to learn and collect customer feedback and suggestions, but they have nothing more to say right now.

Implications in the Crypto Industry

Since its inception, the crypto industry has struggled with its adoption rates. In theory, they do have great potential to revolutionize the financial demographics of the world. But the complexity of blockchain, lack of regulations, and recent bad events rocked the trust of general investors to the core.

The crypto industry has tried many tricks and methods to call for mass adoption, and many of them are working, and the industry can be seen increasing its user base. Any significant event in this arena is closely monitored by many. As in advertising, when a big star endorses or rejects a brand, the brand image is greatly affected in both cases.

When an influential company like Microsoft ventures into crypto and embeds a crypto feature in its default web browser, it will gain eyeballs soon.. This step from the tech giant has strong potential, but whether it will work as intended should be left to the future.