Seattle, Washington - Microsoft Edge has always been a bit of a running joke among internet users, and the latest attempts to make it the browser of choice aren't really changing that perception.

Windows devices come preloaded with Edge, but it's fair to say most users prefer Google Chrome.

According to W3Counter, Microsoft's browser has a mere 5% market share, compared to a whopping 66% for its competitor.

Edge is now trying to change that by flooding users with new ads and pop-ups that practically beg them not to install Chrome.

The pop-ups, which show up in Edge when you go to Chrome's download page, include some cringe-worthy phrases spotted by Neowin and other sources: "This browser is so 2008. Do you know what's new? Microsoft Edge," or "'I hate saving money,' said no one ever. Microsoft Edge is the best browser for online shopping."

Microsoft's pop-ups sometimes even try the straight-shooting approach: "Microsoft Edge runs on the same technology as Chrome, with the added trust of Microsoft."

It all comes across as a bit desperate and very much not in line with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella's statements that "Windows has always stood for sovereignty for creators and agency for consumers."

Edge has a frustrating history of adding features that disgruntle its users, like the recent addition of a pre-installed buy-now, pay-later service.