Microsoft has released version 132 of its Edge browser, introducing significant improvements across productivity, security, and user experience domains. This update, which spans Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms, implements several features previously tested in preview channels.
Administrative Enhancements
Integrated Management Interface
Microsoft has streamlined browser administration by integrating Intune criteria into the Edge management service. This integration enables administrators to manage both cloud and Intune policies through a unified interface, enhancing operational efficiency and security oversight. The addition of a new policy creation guide further simplifies the configuration process.
Version Monitoring System
The Edge management service now includes comprehensive version monitoring capabilities. This system provides administrators with:
- Centralized oversight of all managed browser instances
- Real-time update status tracking
- Automated scheduling of updates
- User notification management for pending updates
User Experience Improvements
Enhanced Shopping Features
The browser now incorporates price monitoring directly in the address bar, allowing users to:
- Track product prices across various retailers
- Receive automated discount notifications
- Make more informed purchasing decisions
Administrators retain control over this feature through the EdgeShoppingAssistantEnabled policy setting.
Workspace Favorites Enhancement
The favorites bar in Workspaces has been significantly improved, featuring:
- Access to the complete favorites collection through a dedicated folder
- Enhanced visibility of all bookmarks, removing previous workspace-specific limitations
- Improved navigation efficiency for users managing multiple workspaces
Security Advancements
Password Management
The introduction of the DeletingUndecryptablePasswordsEnabled policy represents a significant security enhancement. This feature:
- Enables the removal of undecryptable passwords from the built-in password manager
- Restores full password management functionality
- This may result in the permanent removal of unrecoverable credentials
Interface Streamlining
Microsoft has consolidated its support resources by removing the edge://support page. Essential information has been redistributed across:
- edge://version
- edge://metrics-internals
- edge://extensions
- edge://policy
Implications for Users and Organizations
This update demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing Edge’s position in the browser market through:
- Improved administrative controls for enterprise environments
- Enhanced user experience features for daily browsing
- Strengthened security measures for credential management
- Streamlined interface design for better accessibility
The comprehensive nature of these updates indicates Microsoft’s focus on maintaining Edge’s competitiveness while addressing individual and enterprise user needs.
