Microsoft Edge Trials Controversial Auto-Startup Without User Consent

Microsoft is testing a new behavior in Microsoft Edge Beta 147.0.3912.37 that launches the browser automatically at system startup and informs users via a notification banner rather than asking for prior consent. The rollout appears phased across the Beta channel; some installs do not yet show the banner or have the startup toggle enabled. Users can disable the automatic startup in settings, but if widely deployed this change could force users to periodically reassert their preferences.