Windows 11 users compelled to use Edge as the default browser
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Key notes
- Windows 11 users will no longer be able to open the Start menu with any other browser other than Edge.
- Microsoft seemed inconsiderate as their focus was set on ads, bundleware and service subscriptions.
- Windows 11 and Windows 10 users were able to bypass the in-built restrictions using the Edge Deflector.
There are plans underway to help Microsoft block the provision that allows users to open the Start menu search results in a browser other than Edge. users got familiarized to the workaround thanks to the Edge Deflector.
The Edge Deflector allows users to evade some of the built-in-browser restrictions in Windows 11 and Windows 10. Mozilla and Brave had previously intended to use the same technique, that would allow users to access the Start menu results in the respective browsers. However, they have since changed the plans.
Microsoft confirms the block
The block was initially viewed as a mistake by users during last week’s Windows 11 preview build. Later on, Microsoft confirmed that the move they had made was intentional.
Windows allows users to access applications and services on their platform. They also provide users on Windows 11 and Windows 10 with end to end customer experiences.
End-to-end experience
As such, the search experience from the taskbar is one example of the end-to-end experience which is not designed to be redirected. Therefore, they immediately resolve the problem because of the improper redirection.
Developers affected by the move were quick to point fingers at Microsoft for the move. They termed the company as inattentive, they mostly care about ads, bundleware and service subscriptions.
Mozilla criticized Microsoft for the move they made, in that, they felt that they were compelling the users to use certain browsers as defaults. There was a code in place that helped launch Firefox when the Microsoft-edge protocol was used for those users that had already set Firefox as their default browser. However, this is no longer possible.
Microsoft should finally let Edge be independent. Users should be able to use the browser they want without any restrictions. People are still unsure about Microsoft’s priorities. It is quite difficult for one to switch the set default browser in Windows 11.
Users should be able to use a different browser, rather than having them reachout to Windows.
What is your take on Microsoft’s move? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.
