Microsoft Ends Edge Requirement in Windows 11

Adrian Mühlroth

September 7, 2023, 3:22 pm | Read time: 2 minutes

Windows has always been shipped with Microsoft’s own browser, Edge–formerly Internet Explorer. However, in many cases, it is only used to download and install another browser such as Chrome or Firefox. That’s why the company tries to force users to Edge with tricks–but in the EU, that’s now coming to an end.

In the current Insider Preview version of Windows 11, Microsoft now finally allows users to open internet links system-wide with the browser of their choice. Currently, the change is still in the testing phase. The compulsion to open links in Windows only with Edge is one of the biggest criticisms of the operating system.

Windows automatically opens links in Edge

With Windows 10, Microsoft stipulated that links in the search function and the widget in the taskbar would only open in the Edge browser. The system ignores the default browser that users have set in the settings. These so-called system components behave this way in Windows 11 as well.

At least in the European Economic Area (EEA), this compulsion will no longer exist in the future. In a small note in the changelog of the preview version of Windows 11, Microsoft notes: “In the European Economic Area (EEA), Windows system components use the default browser to open links.” The EEA includes the EU countries as well as Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.

Only in Europe Windows 10 Gets Free Support Extension Until 2026

Users in the EU gain more freedom to choose their preferred software in Windows—and can finally say no to Edge.

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Microsoft anticipates new EU law

It is likely that Microsoft is making this change to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which will come into effect in the EU in March 2024. The law forces companies like Microsoft, Apple, and Google to offer more choices in their operating systems.

For example, Apple is expected to allow alternatives for app installation alongside the App Store. Users are also expected to have more freedom to choose default apps and services–such as browsers, voice assistants, and search engines.

TECHBOOK has asked Microsoft for a comment but has not yet received a response.

Source

The Verge: “Microsoft to stop forcing Windows 11 users into Edge in EU countries” (accessed September 7, 2023)

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TECHBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@techbook.de.