Microsoft is testing an integrated crypto wallet in Microsoft Edge
Microsoft is working on an integrated no-custodial Ethereum crypto wallet for Microsoft Edge to allow users to send and receive cryptocurrency and NFTs.
Public keys can be shared with others to receive payments, while private keys should be kept secret and can be used to authorize transactions when you want to spend your cryptocurrency.
Microsoft detective Albacore, who was the first to discover the new Edge crypto wallet tweeted some screenshots and expressed his surprise at the possibility that it could end up as a new Microsoft Edge feature.
It’s not yet rolling out to Insiders and will most likely only be available to Microsoft Edge Dev Channel users as part of a very limited testing period.
“This is a no-custodial wallet, which means you are in complete control of your money. We do not have access to your password and recovery key. It’s embedded in Edge, so it’s easy to use without having to install an extension,” Microsoft says during the onboarding process.
“As a tester, you use your own resources. In the event of a loss of money, Microsoft will not refund any loss. This is a confidential project and no details should be shared externally.”
BleepingComputer tested the new feature, and during onboarding testers will be asked to generate a password to secure their assets and a 12-word recovery sentence to recover their crypto wallet if they forget the password.
After completing the onboarding process, the wallet will generate an Ethereum address to allow users to receive funds through the Ethereum network.
“This alphanumeric address identifies your wallet and is used for transactions — like buying or receiving cryptocurrency. You can also use the QR code to share your public address,” says Microsoft.
Like other cryptocurrency wallets, the Microsoft Edge crypto wallet supports multiple Ethereum accounts so you can switch between them if needed.
Tested can set their default crypto wallet to the built-in edge wallet or an extension wallet depending on how they want to manage their assets.
The Edge crypto wallet can also connect to decentralized apps (dApps) and has a news section to follow the latest cryptocurrency developments.
Microsoft has partnered with Consensys to offer an integrated cryptocurrency swap facility between Ethereum, Dai Stablecoin, Uniswap, USD Coin and Tether Coin.
Additionally, strings in the Edge Developer build show that Redmond may add support for a bitcoin wallet in the future.
“We encourage you to try our first Web3 wallet and provide honest feedback along the way. As early testers, you have a unique opportunity to shape our push into cryptocurrencies and NFTs,” added Redmond.
Update March 17, 4:25 p.m. EDT: A Microsoft spokesman provided the following statement when asked for further details:
At Microsoft, we regularly test new features to discover new experiences for our customers. We look forward to learning from customers and collecting feedback, but have nothing further to share at this time.
