The wallet aims to provide integrated security features to protect users from unsecure addresses or apps, as well as offer a simplified experience for interacting with Web3, the decentralized internet powered by blockchain technology. Twitter user Albacore (@thebookisclosed), who first spotted the new Edge Crypto Wallet, shared screenshots pulled from a beta build of the supposed Edge user interface (UI) strictly meant for internal testing. “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,” Albacore noted.
— Albacore (@thebookisclosed) March 17, 2023 The new Microsoft Edge feature is not yet rolled out to Windows Insiders, which means it is most probably available only to Microsoft Edge Dev Channel users, as part of a very limited test phase. “As a tester, you will use your own funds. In the event of loss of funds, Microsoft will not reimburse any loss. This is a confidential project and no details should be shared externally,” reads the second image of the first screenshot. In other words, those who gave access to Edge’s crypto wallet will have to use it at their own risk. The crypto wallet is “embedded in Edge” in contrast to being an installed browser extension, which makes it easy to use without installing any extension. It can also handle various kinds of cryptocurrency. Since it is a non-custodial wallet, Microsoft users are solely and completely responsible for the passwords and recovery keys that allow access to their funds. In the event the user loses the credentials, the Redmond giant won’t be able to allow them to access their funds. Further, testers will have the opportunity to see the impact of their feedback, as and when the development and improvement of the wallet occurs. The accompanying screenshots show that the built-in crypto wallet offers several advantages. For instance, since Microsoft Edge’s Crypto Wallet supports multiple Ethereum accounts, it allows the users to ability to swap between them as needed. Users can send and buy crypto assets from crypto exchanges such as Coinbase and Web3 infrastructure firm MoonPay, which are “integrated platforms that help you purchase and deposit crypto to your wallet.” Additionally, the Edge crypto wallet can connect to decentralized apps (dApps) to help users to make the most of their wallets on Web3. It also has an “explore” tab that offers news stories related to the latest developments in cryptocurrency, as well as an “assets” tab that will let users see their cryptos and NFTs. “We encourage you to test our first Web3 wallet and provide candid feedback along the journey. As the first testers you have the unique opportunity to shape our foray into cryptocurrencies and NFTs,” added Microsoft. When asked for more information about the development of the built-in crypto wallet, a Microsoft spokesperson gave the following statement to BleepingComputer without confirming any feature: “At Microsoft, we regularly test new features to explore new experiences for our customers. We look forward to learning and collecting feedback from customers but have nothing further to share at this time.
