Microsoft Relaxes Edge Insistence
Microsoft is making a significant change by removing the mandatory Edge browser setting that has frustrated many Windows users. Traditionally, Windows has persistently encouraged users to set Edge as their default browser. However, in compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in Europe, this requirement is being lifted.
New Changes for European Users
According to recent announcements, this update will impact users of both Windows 10 and 11. The Edge browser will now be proposed as the default only when it is directly opened. Unfortunately, this change is limited to the European Economic Area, which includes EU countries as well as Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
Past Strategies to Promote Edge
Microsoft has previously employed aggressive tactics to boost Edge’s user base. These included full-screen prompts, prominent checkboxes, and cumbersome steps to change the default browser, even when alternatives like Chrome were being used. Users attempting to download other browsers were met with messages like “This browser is stuck in 2008”.
Additional DMA-Compliant Changes
The upcoming July update will also allow certain file types such as .svg, ftp, and read to be opened with the user’s preferred default browser. Additionally, the chosen default browser will automatically appear on the taskbar.
Future Developments
Further developments include the option for users to uninstall the Microsoft Store app by the end of the year, although updates for apps installed via the Store will continue. Moreover, Windows Search will soon deliver web search results from multiple third-party apps, with users able to reorder search providers based on their preferences. These features are slated for release in early June.
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