Americans are missing out on some of the best updates Microsoft has made to Windows 11

In the wake of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) taking effect within the European Union (EU), major tech companies, often referred to as “gatekeepers” by the European Commission, have begun to adapt their practices to align with new regulations. Among these companies is Microsoft, which has taken significant steps to enhance user autonomy on Windows 11 devices. Notably, users in the EU can now uninstall Microsoft Edge, Bing, and OneDrive, a move that reflects a broader commitment to compliance and user choice. Additionally, Microsoft has pledged that data collected from third-party applications on Windows 11 will not be leveraged to gain an unfair competitive edge.

Microsoft is easing off on pushing Edge even more in the EEA

One of the most noteworthy adjustments Microsoft is implementing in response to the DMA is the reduction of pressure on users to adopt the Microsoft Bing app. From now on, Bing searches will open in the user’s preferred default browser rather than defaulting to the Bing app. This change extends to links clicked from the Widgets Board or Lock Screen, which will also redirect to the user’s chosen browser in the European Economic Area (EEA).

Previously, launching Edge often prompted users to set it as their default browser, even if they intended to install a different one. Microsoft has now decided to limit these prompts to instances when users actively open Edge by clicking its icon or searching for it. This subtle yet significant shift is a welcome relief for many, especially given the company’s past insistence on promoting Edge, sometimes at the expense of user preference.

This update has been effective since May 29th, coinciding with the release of Edge version 137.0.3296.52. Users who designate a browser as their default will find it automatically pinned to the Taskbar, unless they opt out. Furthermore, when Edge is uninstalled, other Microsoft applications will no longer prompt users to reinstall it, marking a significant shift in user experience.

Additional modifications, while less dramatic, are also on the horizon. The process of setting a default browser will now encompass a broader range of file and link types in the EEA. Windows Search is also receiving enhancements, such as support for third-party web search providers, the ability to view results from multiple sources side by side, and options to customize provider settings.

While some of these updates are already available, Microsoft continues to roll out many features gradually. Initially, they will be introduced in Windows Insider builds before a wider release.