Microsoft is loosening its grip on Windows 11 users in the European Economic Area (EEA).
Recent changes in the developer channel indicate that links from the Start menu's search and widgets will now open in the user's chosen default browser, rather than automatically redirecting to Microsoft's Edge browser.
Windows 11 Search Links No Longer Bound to Edge in Europe
In the Windows Insider Previews notes back in August, Microsoft highlighted that EEA users will soon experience some improvements in Windows 11.
As stated in the post, "Windows system components use the default browser to open links."
While this update currently applies to the EEA, it is expected to roll out to the broader Windows 11 release in the coming weeks or months.
This change will have a far-reaching impact, affecting various aspects of the operating system where links open in a browser, including the main Start menu search and embedded help links.
For many years, people have been complaining about this annoying policy on Windows 11. This is also the reason why many users switched to other third-party browsers like Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome, per PC World.
Finally, the tech titan listened to the concerns of the users and slowly adjusted to the policy.
Why Europe First?
It's questionable why the initial implementation of the Windows 11 update is only happening in Europe. The region is known to be the front face of many American tech firms. It's also the home where the European Commission resides.
This could be the reason why Microsoft chose EAA to experience the change. More importantly, The Verge writes that the Digital Markets Act is about to take effect by 2024 so that leaves the Redmond firm's compliance strategy.
Not a Win-Win Situation For Non-EEA Users
While Europe-based users will benefit from this change, Windows 11 users who are living outside the region will still encounter the popping tabs on Edge. This will happen regardless if they choose another browser.
In late August, Tech Times reported that the Microsoft Edge V117 update will remove five features to pave the way for a simplified user experience.
According to the report, the affected tools are the following: Kids Mode, Picture Dictionary, Math Solver, Grammar Tools, and Citations.
Regarding their removal, Microsoft said that they no longer have "new versions" available for them. It suggests that these features have gone through "depreciation" unlike any other tools on the browser.
The company added that the absence of the features won't affect the regular browser experience of the Edge users.
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