Microsoft [MSFT] are hoping that their latest version of Internet Explorer, IE9, will boost their global usage numbers, as global usage of Internet Explorer has steadily been declining over the last few years.
According to research firm StatCounter, the global usage of Microsoft’s Internet Explorer has reached an all-time low of 49.87 percent. In second place is Mozilla’s Firefox with a 31.5 percent market share.
Usage of Google’s Chrome browser is growing, and it seems to have tripled from 3.69 percent in September 2009 to 11.54 percent in September 2010.
StatCounter via Engadget
The Rise of Competitors
The decline in Internet Explorer’s market share can be attributed to the rise of strong competitors like Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome. Firefox, known for its open-source nature and extensive customization options, has been a favorite among tech enthusiasts and developers. Its robust security features and frequent updates have helped it maintain a significant portion of the market.
Google Chrome, on the other hand, has been rapidly gaining popularity due to its speed, simplicity, and seamless integration with other Google services. Chrome’s user-friendly interface and efficient performance have made it a preferred choice for many users. The browser’s ability to sync across multiple devices and its extensive library of extensions have further contributed to its growing market share.
Microsoft’s Response with IE9
In response to the declining usage of Internet Explorer, Microsoft has introduced IE9 with several new features aimed at enhancing user experience and performance. IE9 boasts improved speed, better compliance with web standards, and a more streamlined interface. Microsoft has also focused on integrating hardware acceleration to improve the performance of graphics and videos.
One of the key features of IE9 is its support for HTML5, which allows for richer and more interactive web content. This is a significant step forward, as HTML5 is becoming the standard for web development. By supporting HTML5, Microsoft aims to attract both developers and users who are looking for a modern browsing experience.
Additionally, IE9 includes enhanced security features to protect users from online threats. With features like SmartScreen Filter and Tracking Protection, Microsoft aims to provide a safer browsing environment. These security enhancements are crucial in an era where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
Despite these improvements, Microsoft faces an uphill battle in regaining its lost market share. The competition is fierce, and both Firefox and Chrome continue to innovate and attract new users. However, with IE9, Microsoft is making a concerted effort to stay relevant in the ever-evolving browser market.
The Future of Web Browsing
As the browser market continues to evolve, it is clear that user preferences are shifting towards browsers that offer speed, security, and a seamless user experience. The rise of mobile browsing has also influenced the market, with users seeking browsers that perform well on both desktop and mobile devices.
Microsoft’s introduction of IE9 is a step in the right direction, but the company will need to continue innovating to keep up with the competition. The future of web browsing will likely see further advancements in speed, security, and integration with other services. Browsers that can adapt to these changing demands will be the ones that succeed in capturing and retaining market share.
In conclusion, while Internet Explorer’s market share has declined, Microsoft’s efforts with IE9 demonstrate their commitment to staying competitive in the browser market. The rise of competitors like Firefox and Chrome has pushed Microsoft to innovate and improve their offering. As the browser landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Microsoft and other browser developers adapt to meet the needs of users.
StatCounter via Engadget
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