Microsoft Highlights Edge as Chrome Adds Vertical Tabs

Microsoft is leaning into a familiar narrative after Google introduced vertical tabs for Chrome on April 7. The feature quickly gained traction across the tech community, prompting Microsoft to highlight that Edge has offered the same functionality for years.

According to Windows Latest, Microsoft responded almost immediately by promoting vertical tabs on the social media platform X. Just days later, on April 10, the company reinforced the message by adding a dedicated feature spotlight page within Edge updates, clearly aiming to capitalize on Chrome’s announcement.

The move reflects a broader strategy. Microsoft appears eager to position Edge as the browser that already delivers features users are just now discovering in Chrome.

Edge had vertical tabs years before Chrome

Vertical tabs are not new to Microsoft’s browser. Edge introduced the feature around 2021, giving users the option to stack tabs on the side instead of the traditional horizontal layout.

The concept itself has existed even longer across other browsers, but Microsoft was among the first major Chromium-based browsers to push it as a core usability feature. Now, with Chrome finally adopting it, Microsoft is using the moment to reinforce its early adoption advantage.

Chrome follows with more familiar ideas

Vertical tabs are not the only area where Chrome appears to mirror existing Edge features. Google is also rolling out an immersive reading mode designed to remove distractions like ads and clutter.

That closely resembles Edge’s Immersive Reader, which has been available since around 2019. Microsoft has long positioned this feature as a productivity tool, particularly for users who prefer cleaner, distraction-free reading experiences.

Microsoft doubles down with promotions

This latest push comes alongside other aggressive promotion efforts. Microsoft recently launched a sweepstakes campaign tied to Edge usage, offering users a chance to win up to $1 million.

The campaign, combined with feature-focused messaging, signals a clear attempt to drive adoption by pairing incentives with product differentiation.

Chrome still moves forward with its own updates

Despite the comparisons, Chrome continues to expand its own ecosystem. Google recently introduced a new “Skills” feature that allows users to save and reuse prompts, targeting productivity and AI-assisted workflows.

At the same time, security concerns remain in focus. Reports have surfaced that more than 100 malicious extensions were discovered in the Chrome Web Store, highlighting ongoing risks tied to browser ecosystems.

The latest exchange shows how closely Chrome and Edge continue to track each other’s features. While Google brings new ideas to a massive user base, Microsoft moves quickly to remind users that many of those features already exist in Edge.

As both browsers evolve, the competition increasingly centers on who delivers the best experience first, and who tells the story better once features overlap.