Microsoft has long faced criticism from Windows users regarding its persistent nudges to adopt Microsoft Edge as their default browser. This relentless promotion has not only sparked frustration among users but has also led to legal challenges. In a notable shift, the tech giant is now implementing significant changes across Windows 10 and Windows 11, aimed at reducing these interruptions and simplifying the process of selecting default browsers.
Changes for EEA Users
These modifications are specifically tailored for users within the European Economic Area (EEA), a response to the requirements set forth by the Digital Markets Act. Previously, the built-in option to change the default web browser was limited, only affecting certain file types. This often resulted in confusion, as some links continued to open in Edge despite users’ preferences.
Microsoft has outlined the enhancements that will take effect in the EEA:
- When users set their default browser via the “Set default” button, it will now encompass a broader range of link and file types, provided the chosen browser registers for them. This includes:
- Link types: ftp, http, https, read
- File types: .htm, .html, .mht, .mhtml, .shtml, .svg, .xht, .xhtml, .xml
- The default browser will be pinned to the Taskbar in the EEA, unless users opt out by unchecking the relevant boxes.
- Users will have the ability to set the .pdf file type default for browsers that support it.
In addition to these changes, users can expect a reduction in prompts to revert to Edge as the default browser. If Edge is uninstalled, users will no longer receive reminders to reinstall it. Furthermore, the Bing app will now utilize the default web browser instead of defaulting to Edge.
Enhancements to Windows Search
Microsoft is also enhancing Windows Search, making it more customizable for users in the EEA. The updated design allows apps to provide web search results directly within Windows Search, improving the overall user experience across various providers.
- When an app registers as a web search provider, it will be automatically enabled upon installation.
- Users can now view results from multiple web search providers simultaneously, with the option to use scoping tabs for more refined searches.
- Web search providers can be reordered in Settings, allowing for a personalized search experience.
These enhancements are already being rolled out in Windows Insider builds and are expected to reach retail versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11 by early June. While the prospect of these changes expanding beyond the EEA is appealing, it remains uncertain whether Microsoft will extend these updates to other regions.
