Windows 11: Why only Europe gets more freedom of choice

Microsoft is granting European users unprecedented control over Windows 11—while the rest of the world is left empty-handed. The new features the company introduced to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) are sparking a global debate about digital justice.

Since March 2024, users in the European Economic Area (EEA) have been able to completely uninstall core applications such as Microsoft Edge and the Microsoft Store for the first time. These changes mark one of the most significant shifts in Windows' philosophy in decades. The result: a Windows 11 that is significantly more flexible and open than its global version.

Two worlds, one operating system

The difference is dramatic. In Europe, users can not only remove Edge and the Microsoft Store – they can also completely eliminate Bing's web search. Links from system components like the widgets board consistently open in the chosen default browser, not automatically in Edge. Third-party providers can integrate their search engines directly into the Windows search bar, displacing Bing.

These privileges are geographically limited. The system automatically detects the region during Windows setup and enables the DMA-compliant features accordingly. Once set, this setting can only be changed by performing a full device reset.

What Microsoft defended for years as “system-critical components” suddenly turns out to be dispensable – at least for 450 million Europeans. Ad: For anyone who really wants to get Windows 11 under control: Get a stress-free Windows 11 upgrade—with all your programs and files. The free "Windows 11 Complete Package" report shows installation and data migration step by step and explains the most important new features. Get the free report now.

The worldwide outcry

The existence of a more liberal Windows 11 hasn't gone unnoticed by the global tech community. Discontent with this digital two-tier society is growing in forums and trade media. "These aren't minor adjustments, but fundamental changes for greater device control," the international trade press analyzes.

The core accusation: Microsoft itself has proven with the European version that Edge and other apps are technically dispensable. This invalidates the decades-long justification for enforced app bundling in other markets.

Frustration is growing, especially in the US and the UK. Users feel degraded to second-class citizens, denied basic digital freedom of choice.

Microsoft's dilemma

The company is keeping quiet. Officially, the changes are part of its "ongoing commitment to comply with the Digital Markets Act" – exclusively for the EEA. A global expansion? None.

Microsoft's hesitation is understandable. Edge and Bing are central pillars of data collection for advertising and product development. Global liberalization could jeopardize billions in revenue.

But this geographically fragmented approach carries risks. Other countries could introduce similar regulations to the EU. Tech-savvy users are already circumventing the restrictions by changing their region to Europe during installation. Advertisement: Related to Windows 11 and new freedoms: Why more and more PC users are now switching to Windows 11 – and what they should read beforehand. This free report compiles everything you need to know to ensure the transition goes smoothly – including a step-by-step plan. Request your free Windows 11 report.

The future of digital borders

Microsoft is at a crossroads. Either the company maintains the status quo and risks growing user frustration – or it makes the European features the global standard.

There are increasing signs that pressure is mounting. If a single regulatory region is enough to force fundamental product changes, the question arises: How long can Microsoft maintain these digital boundaries?

The answer could determine the future of the entire tech industry. Because Microsoft isn't alone—Apple has also introduced EU-specific changes. The battle for digital sovereignty has only just begun.