Microsoft Edge Crypto Wallet reportedly in the works

by Arthur · March 18, 2023

Microsoft Edge users may soon have access to a crypto wallet feature, according to screenshots circulating on Twitter. The leak shows a potential integration of a cryptocurrency wallet directly into the popular browser.

While Microsoft has yet to confirm the feature, speculation is already swirling about its potential impact on the growing digital asset market.

Microsoft Edge Crypto feature “baked into” new releases

Software documents and occasional data leaks Albacore posted what appear to be early screenshots of the company’s the new Web3 wallet user interface (UI) on Twitter.

A cryptocurrency wallet, a decentralized application explorer, a news feed, and the ability to buy cryptocurrency using Coinbase and MoonPay are all shown in the screenshots provided by Albacore. Newer versions of Microsoft Edge have the “already built in” feature, but users can’t see it or use it because it’s hidden.

Screenshots also show that you can exchange, send and buy crypto-assets. Crypto exchange Coinbase and Web3 infrastructure firm MoonPay are featured as “integrated platforms that help you buy and deposit crypto to your wallet.”

Latest in the gauntlet of questionable upcoming Microsoft Edge features, a crypto wallet 💸
Not quite sure how you feel about this sort of thing being baked into the default browser, what are your thoughts?
More screenshots of the user interface in the next tweet ➡️ pic.twitter.com/GAUPiZGLIY

— Albacore (@thebookisclosed) March 17, 2023

If confirmed, the Microsoft Edge wallet will be built into Edge instead of a separately installed browser plugin, and it will be non-custodial in that Microsoft will not have access to your wallet passwords or recovery keys.

However, Albacore stresses that many of the things Microsoft develops and tests never make it out of the lab.

Microsoft’s attempt at Web3

Microsoft has been making progress in the Web3 worldthe next evolution of the internet that aims to decentralize data and give users more control over their online experiences.

One of Microsoft’s key initiatives in this area is the development of its Decentralized Identity (DID) system, which allows users to create and manage their own digital identities without relying on centralized authorities.

This system uses blockchain technology, which provides a secure and transparent way to store and manage data. With the DID system, users can maintain control over their personal information and choose how and when to share it with others.

In addition to the work on decentralized identity, Microsoft has also explored the potential of blockchain in other areas.

Crypto total market cap at a little over $1 trillion on the weekend chart at TradingView.com

The company has launched a number of blockchain-based tools and services, including Azure Blockchain Workbench, which helps developers build and deploy blockchain applications, and Azure Blockchain Tokens, which allow businesses to create and manage their own digital assets.