Microsoft will ask EU users less frequently to set Edge as the default browser, and offers the option to remove the Microsoft Store.
As part of the Digital Markets Act, where Microsoft is subject to stricter measures as a gatekeeper, the company is implementing several changes in Windows 10, Windows 11, and Microsoft apps. One of these changes is that Edge will no longer ask users to set the browser as the default browser. Additionally, users will have the option to remove the Microsoft Store, as announced by the company in a blog post. The changes only apply to European users.
Default browser
When you set a default browser in the EEA using the Set as default button in Settings, additional link types (such as ftp, read) and file formats (such as .mht, .svg, .xml) will now be automatically assigned to that browser, provided it registers for them.
The .pdf file type can also be linked to the browser, and the browser will be pinned to the taskbar by default, unless you disable it. These new default settings are being rolled out gradually, partly already in the beta channel and fully from July for Windows 10 and 11.
Microsoft Store
The new changes also include the ability to remove the Microsoft Store. However, apps installed from the Microsoft Store will continue to receive updates to ensure they remain safe to use. To remove the Microsoft Store, go to Start > Settings and click on Uninstall.
