In a move reflecting its commitment to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), Microsoft has announced sweeping changes to its Windows operating systems and applications within the European Economic Area (EEA). Among the notable updates is a revamped process for setting default browsers on Windows 10 and Windows 11. Users in the EEA will now find that selecting a browser as the default via the "Set default" button configures additional file and link types, including FTP, .mht, .svg, and .pdf files - if supported by the browser. Furthermore, the chosen browser will automatically be pinned to the Taskbar unless users opt out through newly introduced checkboxes. But it is not only about Microsoft Edge.
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Expanded Web Search Capabilities
Windows Search is also receiving significant updates tailored to the EEA market. Apps can now register as web search providers, enabling users to view results from multiple sources simultaneously. These providers can be reordered or customized in the Settings app, offering greater flexibility. This functionality has already rolled out to Windows Insider testers and will reach retail builds by early June.
Uninstalling the Microsoft Store Becomes an Option
In another unprecedented step, Microsoft is allowing users in the EEA to uninstall the Microsoft Store entirely - a feature previously unavailable. Despite this, apps downloaded through the Store will continue receiving updates even after the Store is removed. The ability to reinstall the Store ensures users retain control over their software ecosystem. This change is expected later this year.
Microsoft will perhaps use the Windows Update service to ship updates to the apps. The appropriate change in the works. If developers will adapt their apps to make them registered on Windows Update, the apps will get new versions the way the OS receives cumulative updates.
Broader Impacts on Microsoft Apps
Several Microsoft apps are being adjusted to align with DMA requirements. For instance, the Microsoft Bing app now opens web content using the user’s default browser in the EEA, while the Start Experiences app follows suit when handling widget-related links.
Additionally, Microsoft Edge will no longer prompt users to set it as the default browser unless explicitly opened. Similarly, uninstalling Edge will prevent other Microsoft apps from encouraging its reinstallation.
Closing words
These updates mark a fundamental shift in how Microsoft operates within the EEA, giving users choice in areas where it has not been seen before. Microsoft is heavily focused on meeting regulatory expectations. These changes are being rolled out across Windows 10 and Windows 11 and their associated apps, making these platforms more flexible for the end user.
The official announcement is here.
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