Microsoft has updated the server part of its services and added two files BCILauncher.EXE and BingChatInstaller.EXE to Windows 11/10 to show Bing pop-up ads to Google Chrome users on Windows 10/11. Some users may accidentally set Bing as their default search engine in Chrome after receiving the notification, as it requires an interaction.
Recently, Windows 10/11 users using Google Chrome have reported seeing pop-up ads promoting Bing on the right side of their browsers. While some initially suspected malware, it was revealed to be part of a new Microsoft campaign.
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Microsoft has confirmed to Windows Latest that they are testing a one-time notification prompting users to make Bing their default search engine on Chrome. The company emphasizes offering users a choice and provides an option to dismiss the notification. Additionally, the pop-up advertises free access to ChatGPT-4 through Bing's chatbot.
The pop-up ad alters Chrome's search settings and switches to Bing if users click on "Yes." Experts have identified BCILauncher.EXE and BingChatInstaller.EXE as the potential sources of this pop-up, added to some of the Windows 10/11 systems with a preview update released on March 13th, 2024.
Microsoft's pop-up promoting Bing's default search suggests adding GPT-4 for free in Chrome. By installing the Bing Search Chrome extension, Microsoft claims improvement in the chat experience with features like chat history and personalization.
Microsoft assures users that the pop-up is a one-time notification and will not reappear after choosing "No" or "Yes." Although lacking a close button, users can select "No, thanks" to dismiss the warning.
Opting for "Yes" in the pop-up triggers Microsoft to add the Bing extension to Chrome and change the default search to Bing. A subsequent message emphasizes sticking with Bing for AI capabilities and other features.
Users who are prompted to change back to Google receive a final warning indicating the loss of access to Bing AI and features like GPT-4 and DALL-E 3. The choice is then presented to revert to Google or continue using Bing.
As you could expect, the change draws controversy among Chrome users. They find the new ads intrusive, and accuse Microsoft for using dark patterns to promote their services.
Image and credits: Windows Latest
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