Microsoft Finally Backs Off Edge Promotions in Europe — Here's Why

Looking for a way to stop Microsoft Edge from constantly prompting you to switch browsers in Windows 10 or 11? You're not alone. Many users have searched for how to stop Microsoft Edge notifications or how to set Chrome as the default browser without interference. Thanks to the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA), Microsoft has made a significant change: Windows users in the European Economic Area (EEA) can now uninstall Edge, remove Bing integration, and avoid repeated prompts trying to make Edge the default browser. These updates are already live and rolling out across devices, marking a huge win for user choice and browser freedom.

What Has Changed for Windows Users in the EU?

As part of its compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, Microsoft is offering a more user-friendly Windows experience. These updates apply to users in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, where regulators have cracked down on anti-competitive software bundling. Starting with Edge version 137.0.3296.52, users in the region now have the option to:

• Uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows.

• Remove the Microsoft Store icon from the Start Menu and Settings.

• Avoid pop-ups asking to set Edge as the default browser—unless the user opens Edge themselves.

• Pin their browser of choice (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, etc.) to the taskbar automatically.

This shift aligns with modern user experience optimization standards and addresses one of the top frustrations users have had with Windows default browser settings.

Default Browser Settings: More Control, Less Frustration

Previously, changing the default browser on Windows didn’t fully apply across all file types and protocols. With this update, users in the EEA will see more consistent behavior when setting a non-Microsoft browser as default. It now applies to more extensions and link types like .svg, ftp, and read, creating a smoother and more intuitive browsing experience.

Additionally, newly installed third-party apps can integrate their web search results into Windows Search automatically. Web content that appears on the Lock Screen, Widgets Board, or Bing-powered panels will now open in your default browser, not Edge. This level of control has long been requested, especially by professionals and students looking for streamlined, distraction-free workflows.

High-Value Ad Implications for Tech Users

These changes don’t just matter for tech enthusiasts—they also impact search engine optimization, browser privacy, and online advertising dynamics.  Advertisers are increasingly targeting users looking to improve their digital privacy, reduce ad tracking, or switch to high-speed browsers that better support secure online banking, remote work software, and video conferencing tools.

Why the U.S. and Other Regions May Be Left Waiting

Unfortunately for users outside the EEA, these privacy-forward and anti-monopoly browser updates are not yet rolling out globally. That includes the United States, where Microsoft’s aggressive Edge promotions remain in place. While the company has shown some flexibility in browser choice, it continues to push Edge via prompts, pre-installed shortcuts, and integrated search functions.

However, international pressure and growing user dissatisfaction may eventually lead to similar changes elsewhere. For now, if you live in Europe, this update puts you in control of your browser — and your experience on Windows — like never before.