Microsoft’s latest updates to Windows 10 and 11 mark a significant shift in how the tech giant operates within the European Union, driven by the stringent requirements of the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

The legislation, aimed at fostering fair competition and curbing the dominance of tech behemoths, has pushed Microsoft to make notable changes to its operating systems and bundled services in the European Economic Area (EEA), a move that could reshape user experiences and set a precedent for global tech compliance.

These updates, rolled out as of early June 2025, allow users in the EEA to uninstall previously entrenched applications like Microsoft Edge and Bing, a departure from the company’s long-standing practice of embedding its software deeply into the Windows ecosystem. According to The Verge, this change directly addresses DMA mandates to prevent gatekeepers from unfairly prioritizing their own services over competitors. Additionally, Microsoft is reducing the intrusiveness of Bing notifications, a feature that has often frustrated users with persistent prompts.

A Broader Compliance Strategy

Beyond individual app uninstalls, Microsoft is also adjusting how the Microsoft Store interacts with users in the EEA. The Verge reports that the company is dialing back aggressive promotions within the store, ensuring that third-party apps have a fairer shot at visibility. This aligns with the DMA’s goal of leveling the playing field for smaller developers who have historically struggled to compete with Microsoft’s pre-installed offerings.

Further details from the Windows Insider Blog reveal that these changes are part of a broader commitment to compliance, with Microsoft promising ongoing updates to meet evolving regulatory expectations. The blog notes that the company is not just reacting to current rules but proactively preparing for future scrutiny, indicating a long-term strategy to align with European regulations while maintaining its market position.

User Empowerment and Market Impact

For users, these updates represent a newfound level of control over their operating systems. The ability to remove Edge or disable Bing’s search integration means that EEA residents can tailor their Windows experience more closely to their preferences, whether that involves switching to alternative browsers like Chrome or search engines like Google. This user empowerment, as highlighted by The Verge, could pressure Microsoft to enhance the quality of its services to retain customers rather than relying on default settings.

From a market perspective, the implications are profound. Competitors stand to gain as barriers to entry are lowered, potentially spurring innovation and diversity in the software space. The Windows Insider Blog emphasizes that Microsoft is also introducing mechanisms to gather feedback from stakeholders, suggesting an openness to dialogue with both users and regulators as these changes unfold.

Looking Ahead

As Microsoft navigates this regulatory landscape, the tech industry watches closely. These DMA-driven updates may serve as a blueprint for how other companies adapt to similar laws worldwide. While currently limited to the EEA, the principles of choice and fairness could influence Microsoft’s global policies if other regions adopt comparable frameworks.

The road to full compliance is ongoing, and as The Verge and the Windows Insider Blog both note, Microsoft’s willingness to adapt will be tested in the coming months. For now, these changes signal a pivotal moment in balancing corporate interests with regulatory demands, potentially redefining the relationship between tech giants and the markets they serve.