Microsoft is reportedly working on integrating a Web3 wallet that supports cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) into its Edge web browser.
In a March 17 Twitter thread, software doc — and sometimes source — Albacore shared a series of purported Edge user interface (UI) screenshots showing the early stages of the firm’s new Web3 wallet.
“The latest in a line of dubious future Microsoft Edge features, a cryptocurrency wallet that isn’t quite sure how to feel about stuff like this baked into the default browser,” Albacore said pessimistically.
The first screenshot shows the Edge wallet introduction page, and Microsoft apparently notes that: “We encourage you to test our first Web3 wallet and provide candid feedback along the way.”
If this turns out to be true, it looks like the wallet won’t be used for storage since Microsoft won’t have access to passwords and recovery keys, and will also be “built into Edge” rather than as an installed browser extension.
The attached screenshots show the ability to exchange, send, and buy crypto assets, with cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase and Web3 infrastructure company MoonPay appearing as integrated “platforms that help you buy and deposit crypto into your wallet.”
As for NFTs, the UI simply says, “Browse various marketplaces to find your first NFT, once you’ve built your NFT collection, we’ll organize them here.”
Microsoft’s potential move marks another recent attempt to significantly expand the offerings and capabilities of Edge, which tends to lag behind rivals like Google Chrome and Apple Safari in terms of popularity.
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On February 7, Microsoft announced the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) search engines and chat via OpenAI ChatGPT as part of new updates to its Bing and Edge browsers.
