Microsoft is testing changes to Windows 11 that would allow the taskbar search box to open web queries in users’ default browsers rather than automatically forcing Edge. The potential shift, discovered in early Edge browser test builds, could mark a significant departure from Microsoft’s longstanding practice of steering users toward its own services.
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Hidden Flags Reveal Potential Policy Shift
Windows Latest uncovered experimental flags in Edge Canary builds that suggest Microsoft is developing functionality to respect user preferences for both default browsers and search engines. The flags specifically reference “WSB” (Windows Search Bar) features, indicating these changes would apply to the taskbar search interface that millions of Windows 11 users interact with daily.
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One flag enables “Use default browser for Windows Search Bar results,” while another activates “Use default search engine for Windows Search Bar results.” A third flag combines both behaviors, potentially allowing users to completely bypass Microsoft’s ecosystem when performing web searches from the taskbar. These developments, while still experimental, represent the most concrete evidence yet that Microsoft may be reconsidering its aggressive promotion of Edge and Bing.
Microsoft’s approach to default apps has drawn regulatory scrutiny worldwide. The company’s official Windows blog has previously acknowledged the need for greater user choice, particularly in response to evolving regulatory requirements.
European Precedent Driving Global Changes
The European Economic Area already enjoys the functionality Microsoft is now testing globally, thanks to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. Since March 2024, Windows 11 users in EEA countries have had their default browser and search engine choices respected by the taskbar search box, a direct result of EU legislation targeting anti-competitive practices by major tech platforms.
The Digital Markets Act, which the European Commission describes as ensuring “fair and contestable digital markets,” requires gatekeeper companies to allow users to easily change default settings and install third-party applications. Microsoft’s compliance in Europe demonstrates the company’s technical capability to implement these changes globally, raising questions about why other regions have waited this long.
According to Statista data, Edge holds approximately 11% of the global browser market share, while competitors like Google Chrome dominate with over 65%. This market dynamic has led Microsoft to employ various tactics to promote its services, but regulatory pressure appears to be driving a more user-friendly approach.
Technical Implementation and User Impact
The proposed changes would fundamentally alter how Windows 11 handles web searches initiated from the taskbar. Currently, clicking any web result automatically opens Edge with Bing, regardless of the user’s default browser settings. The new functionality would instead launch the query in whatever browser and search engine the user has designated as their default.
This technical shift requires modifications to both the Windows shell and Edge browser, explaining why the flags appeared in Edge Canary builds. Microsoft’s official documentation on Edge policies shows the company has extensive control over how the browser interacts with Windows features, suggesting the changes could be deployed relatively quickly once finalized.
For users who have deliberately chosen alternatives like Chrome, Firefox, or privacy-focused browsers like Brave, this change would eliminate a significant point of friction. The current behavior often forces users to manually copy and paste search terms between applications, undermining productivity and user experience.
Broader Implications for Microsoft’s Strategy
If implemented globally, this policy shift would represent a notable softening of Microsoft’s ecosystem strategy. The company has increasingly integrated its services throughout Windows 11, from Bing-powered search to Edge-specific features in widgets and Copilot. Respecting default choices could signal a more open approach to platform management.
Microsoft’s evolving stance reflects broader industry trends toward interoperability and user choice. As FTC Chair Lina Khan noted in recent statements about technology competition, “When dominant firms engage in exclusionary conduct, they can undermine competition and harm consumers.” Microsoft’s potential move aligns with increasing global regulatory expectations for platform neutrality.
The company faces balancing acts between promoting its services and maintaining Windows’ position as an open platform. With Microsoft’s cloud and AI businesses generating substantial revenue, the strategic importance of forcing Edge and Bing usage may be diminishing compared to the goodwill gained from respecting user preferences.
