- In Europe, Microsoft will allow you to uninstall Edge and the Microsoft Store on Windows 10 and 11.
- Edge will stop insisting on being the default browser, unless opened manually.
- The default browser will support more file types and links, including PDF.
- Windows Search and other apps will respect user choice and enable multiple providers.
Microsoft is adapting to new European standards after the entry into force of the Digital Markets Law (DMA), which implies a series of Changes to Windows 10 and Windows 11 for users residing in the European Economic Area (EEA)These settings, which primarily affect the management of browsers and pre-installed applications, aim to provide greater control and freedom of choice to European users.
For years, Windows users have had to endure constant notifications from Microsoft inviting them to use Edge as their default browser, as well as the hassle of uninstalling system apps. Now, due to regulatory pressure from Brussels, This situation will change exclusively in Europe.Outside this territory, practices will remain the same.
Edge and Store insistence removed in Europe
One of the main novelties will be that Microsoft Edge will no longer appear claiming to be the default browserThis prompt will only appear if the user chooses to open Edge directly, such as from the pinned icon in the taskbar. Additionally, if someone chooses to uninstall Edge from their PC, the operating system will it will not ask to be reinstalled again, which means the end of one of the most criticized tactics by the community.
On the other hand, The Microsoft Store may also be removed completely. from the system, something that was previously impossible because it was considered a "system component." The user can remove it whenever they want and, if they ever decide to miss it, reinstall it without complications. Even if the store is deleted, Apps already downloaded will continue to work and receive updates as usual.
These changes have already started to be offered through the Windows Insider program and they will reach all commercial versions of Windows 11 and 10 for Europe throughout the summer and the end of the year.
The default browser, now with greater reach
Until now, selecting a different web browser in Windows only modified some protocols, mainly http y httpsWith the new updates in the European area, the default browser settings will be more comprehensive: it will cover more types of links such as ftp and read, and will expand the list of files associated with extensions such as .htm, .html, .mht, .svg, .xml, and even PDF files if the browser allows it.
When a user selects a new default browser, Windows will automatically pin your shortcut to the taskbar, making it easier to use on a daily basis. If preferred, this option can be disabled in the advanced settings. This setting also benefits those who open PDF documents or web files, as they can now do so without having to go through Edge.
These modifications not only affect web browsing, but promote interoperability of the entire operating system, making customization and changing preferences easier.
Greater openness in search and applications
Windows Search is also updated to allow the integration of multiple web providersUntil now, searching for something from the taskbar would automatically redirect to Bing, even if you were using a different browser. From now on, both Bing and other search engines will be able to display search results directly in the operating system interface, providing more options for users.
In fact, any application registered as a web search provider will be automatically activated upon installation, and users will be able to reorder said suppliers from the settings to decide which one you prefer to appear first. This fosters a more diverse and customizable search environment, breaking Microsoft's exclusivity.
In addition, both the application of Microsoft Bing such as widgets and home experiences, will no longer open web links exclusively in Edge, instead opening in the browser the user has set as default.
Users benefiting from these improvements
All these changes will apply only in the countries that are part of the European Economic Area, that is, the European Union states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. The rollout will be gradual, starting in the beta channel and soon reaching all updated devices.
Users in the rest of the world will, for now, have to continue to adhere to Microsoft's traditional policies regarding the management of browsers and system apps. However, this step could set a precedent for future changes outside of Europe.
These decisions increase the autonomy, flexibility and transparency of Windows users in Europe, promoting a more open environment where control over the applications and services on their devices rests with them.
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