In early February 2025, Microsoft published a support page titled "How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge" on its official website. However, upon accessing the page, users found it lacking any instructions for uninstalling the browser. Instead, the content highlighted features of Microsoft Edge, such as integration with Microsoft Widgets, Copilot Chat, and Bing Search, and included a comparison chart favoring Edge over its competitor, Google Chrome. (ghacks.net)

This approach led to criticism, with observers noting that the page was more of a promotional tool than a genuine uninstallation guide. The intent appeared to be to dissuade users from removing Edge by emphasizing its advantages. For instance, the comparison table showcased features exclusive to Edge, positioning it as superior to Chrome. (windowslatest.com)

Following the backlash, Microsoft removed the page from its support site. The original link now redirects to a different page that does not claim to provide uninstallation instructions. (notebookcheck.net)

This incident underscores Microsoft's strategy to promote Edge by integrating it deeply into the Windows 11 ecosystem. While users can set alternative browsers as defaults, completely uninstalling Edge is challenging due to its system-level integration. For example, certain Windows features, like Widgets and Copilot, rely on Edge's rendering engine. As a result, removing Edge could disrupt these functionalities. (dexerto.com)

For users intent on removing Edge, several methods exist, though they come with caveats:

  1. Using Command Prompt: By navigating to Edge's installation directory and executing specific commands, users can uninstall the browser. However, this method requires knowledge of Edge's version number and administrative privileges. (makeuseof.com)
  2. Registry Editor: Modifying registry settings can enable the uninstallation option for Edge. This approach involves changing the "NoRemove" value to 0 in the registry, allowing Edge to be uninstalled through the Settings app. Caution is advised, as incorrect registry edits can lead to system instability. (alphr.com)
  3. Third-Party Uninstallers: Tools like Geek Uninstaller can force the removal of Edge. These applications often bypass Microsoft's restrictions but may not guarantee complete removal, and there's a risk of residual files or potential system issues. (dexerto.com)

It's important to note that even after uninstalling Edge, Windows updates may reinstall it. To prevent this, users can disable Edge's auto-update feature through the Registry Editor or Group Policy Editor, though these methods are more complex and require careful execution. (makeuseof.com)

In conclusion, Microsoft's initial "uninstall" guide was a strategic move to retain users within the Edge ecosystem by highlighting its features and advantages. While complete removal of Edge is possible through various methods, users should weigh the potential benefits against the risks and consider the implications for system functionality.