What changes are European regulations bringing to Windows?
Microsoft will soon offer Windows users the option of uninstalling any pre-installed app, including the Windows Store. — Microsoft
The well-known operating system is making changes to adapt to the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA). As a result, Microsoft has announced a series of major changes coming to Windows (10 and 11). These changes, which only affect Europe, will be rolled out gradually starting in June 2025, with widespread deployment planned for July.
The DMA, which came into full effect in March 2024, requires companies designated as "gatekeepers' to ensure fair competition in digital markets. This includes, in particular, the obligation to allow users to remove pre-installed applications and freely choose their default services.
As a result, Microsoft will soon offer Windows users the option of uninstalling any pre-installed app, including the Windows Store. In addition, it will be easier to set third-party software as the default browser, ie, to choose Chrome , Firefox , or another browser instead of Edge .
At the same time, Microsoft will have to stop displaying incentives to use its browser, putting an end to pop-up windows encouraging users to adopt it if they have not already done so. Finally, it will be possible to choose alternative news feeds in the taskbar widgets.
All these new features will be rolled out in July, but will only affect users in the European Economic Area (EEA). These adjustments mark a significant step towards greater transparency and increased competition in the Windows ecosystem, thereby meeting the requirements of the DMA and giving European users greater control over their digital experience. – AFP Relaxnews
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