Microsoft to stop Edge forcing on Windows 11 in Europe

The change will allow users in Europe to choose their default browser for links in the Windows Widgets panel and search results.

The change is being tested in recent Windows 11 builds within the European Economic Area (EEA). Previously, users were directed to Edge when clicking links in the search results or Windows Widgets, ignoring their chosen default browser. Microsoft's decision to implement this change appears to be a response to potential antitrust issues and user complaints in the EU.

Microsoft has also taken steps to unbundle Teams from its Microsoft 365 and Office 365 suites in EU markets, following an antitrust investigation initiated by the European Commission.

It remains unclear whether these Windows 11 changes are directly linked to the EU investigation or if Microsoft faced additional complaints regarding default app behavior in Windows 11. However, the EU's Digital Markets Act, set to take effect in March 2024, imposes rules to increase competition and user choice, which likely played a role in Microsoft's decision to align its practices with these upcoming regulations in EU countries.