Microsoft has unveiled a series of adjustments to its Windows operating system, aiming to align with the stipulations of Europe’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The latest updates, which were shared in a recent blog post, reflect the company’s commitment to fostering a more competitive environment in the European Economic Area (EEA).
Compliance with the Digital Markets Act
Designated as a “gatekeeper” under the DMA in 2023, Microsoft is mandated to modify its core platform services to facilitate fair competition. Initially, the European Commission’s ruling encompassed a range of services, including Windows, Bing Search, Edge, Microsoft Advertising, Outlook, and LinkedIn. However, this scope was later refined to focus solely on Windows and LinkedIn.
In March 2024, Microsoft announced a suite of changes tailored for European users, which included:
- The ability to uninstall Edge and Bing.
- Support for third-party web applications on the Windows taskbar.
- Revisions to sign-on practices, ensuring users are not automatically logged into Bing and Edge.
The latest modifications come in response to ongoing feedback from rival browser developers and other stakeholders, who have called for further concessions from the tech giant.
One significant change is the adjustment to how Edge prompts users to set it as their default browser. Users will now only receive notifications to make Edge their default browser after they have actively opened it. Additionally, the “Set Default” button, accessible through Settings > Apps > Default apps, will now cover a wider array of file types in the EEA, including .xhtml and .pdf. This means that users’ preferred browsers will be utilized more frequently, rather than defaulting to Microsoft’s selections.
Some of these enhancements are already available through the Beta Channel in Build 26120.4151, with a broader rollout anticipated for Windows 10 and 11 retail customers in July.
Moreover, Windows Search, which has traditionally relied on Bing for web content and search results, will now allow EEA users to install applications that designate alternative web search providers. This feature is currently accessible on Windows Insider builds and is expected to reach retail versions of Windows 10 and 11 later this month.
Additionally, users in the EEA will soon have the option to uninstall and reinstall the Microsoft Store, further enhancing their control over the Windows experience.
Jon S. von Tetzchner, CEO of the browser company Vivaldi, expressed his approval of Microsoft’s recent changes via social media, stating, “Regulation works. You can thank the [European Commission] for some important Windows changes, where Edge will nag you less. I wish these were worldwide.” He also noted that while progress has been made, the process for users to set their preferred default browser still requires improvement, emphasizing the need for a more straightforward approach.
