Observed Signal · Jul 25, 2023 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Bing Chat Expands to Safari, Chrome and More
Microsoft has confirmed Bing Chat will be available in non-Microsoft browsers such as Safari and Google Chrome as part of a testing program. While this expands access beyond Edge and the mobile Bing app, testers report limitations in non-Microsoft browsers compared with Edge. For Chrome, five messages per conversation have been observed versus 30 in Edge, and the character limit is 2,000 versus 3,000 in Edge. A Dark Theme for Bing Chat is also being tested, though it is not yet generally available. Microsoft did not disclose exact launch timing, supported browsers, or global availability. TechCrunch covered the testing, and Caitlin Roulston, Microsoft Director of Communications, confirmed that access is being flighted to selected users during the testing phase.
Cross-browser expansion of Bing Chat; testing; limited access
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Microsoft confirmed Bing Chat will run in Safari and Chrome as part of testing.
- Chrome testing shows Bing Chat limits: five messages per conversation vs Edge's 30.
- Chrome limits messages to 2,000 characters vs Edge's 3,000.
- Dark Theme for Bing Chat is being tested but not generally available yet.
Connected Companies & Entities
3 Entities mappedRelated Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
Microsoft Xbox creates new division for films, series, parks
Microsoft's Xbox gaming division announced the creation of a new business unit dedicated to films, television series, and theme park attractions. The move signals an expansion into entertainment and immersive experiences beyond video games, leveraging Xbox's intellectual property. This strategic diversification is part of Microsoft's broader ambition to grow its media and entertainment footprint, following trends seen across the industry. The new division will focus on developing and producing content based on Xbox franchises, potentially opening new revenue streams for the company. Financial details or a timeline for the division's operations have not been disclosed.
US Government Excludes Microsoft from Visa Program
The US government has barred Microsoft from participating in the permanent residency process for foreign workers with H-1B visas, accusing the company of abusing the program. Vice President JD Vance stated that Microsoft laid off 6,000 American employees last year while benefiting from 6,300 H-1B visa holders. The Department of Labor, led by Keith Sonderling, will not accept new permanent residency applications from Microsoft, as well as several consulting firms and Adobe. This action comes weeks before the midterm elections and reflects the Trump administration's broader criticism of the H-1B program, which it claims disadvantages American workers. Microsoft has not yet responded. The move could impact the tech industry's ability to retain skilled foreign talent.
Outlook to Block MSIX Files as Email Attachments
Microsoft has announced that Outlook will begin blocking MSIX file attachments, a move aimed at preventing malicious distribution through email. The change affects both the classic Outlook for Windows and the new Outlook for Windows, as well as other clients like Outlook on the web. Microsoft's decision comes in response to the increasing use of MSIX files in phishing and malware attacks. The block will be implemented in phases, starting with a controlled rollout and then expanding to all users. The company advises users to use alternative secured methods for sharing such files. This technical update is part of Microsoft's broader security enhancements for its email clients.
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