Microsoft Ends Use of Fake Google Interface on Bing

Microsoft has quietly discontinued its imitation of the Google user interface on Bing, intended to deceive users into believing they were accessing Google's platform. Previously, searching for "Google" on Bing would yield a page that mimicked Google's design, featuring a distinct search bar and an image akin to a Google Doodle, complete with small text underneath.

This deceptive interface disappeared from Bing's Google search results just days after being brought to public attention by Reddit users. Microsoft's fake Google interface also included slight automatic scrolling to obscure Bing's own search bar at the top of the results, clearly aimed at misleading users into thinking they were on Google's website.

The fake Google UI on Bing that has now been removed. Image: Tom Warren

While Microsoft chose not to comment on this fake Google interface, Google was quick to react. "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but Microsoft spoofing the Google homepage is another tactic in its long history of tricks to confuse users & limit choice," stated Google Chrome executive Parisa Tabriz in a recent social media post, adding, "New year; new low Microsoft."

Microsoft has been criticized in the past for employing numerous tactics to steer users towards Bing and Microsoft Edge, such as altering Chrome download pages and employing pop-ups that appear malware-like to dissuade users from switching to Google. The company has previously had to address "unintended behavior" resulting from pop-up ads within Google Chrome.