The EU is tightening regulations on labels in the Start menu of Windows 11.
Luke Larsen / Digital Trends
In accordance with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), Microsoft is revising the Start Menu Search in Windows 11, but this update is applicable only to users within the European Economic Area, as noted by Tech Radar. The company is implementing clearer labels to differentiate between web search results and local results. This initiative is part of broader changes that allow users to uninstall Edge and disable Bing integration, enhancing transparency and user choice.
These updates are included in a new Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, specifically build 27764. Notably, an X user named @alex290292 shared a screenshot showcasing the revamped Start menu interface with sections for "Windows" and "Web search from Bing." These changes are a positive development as they provide users with greater control over Windows 11. Specifically, the updates include the ability to add custom web search providers to Windows Search, the option to remove the Edge browser, and the ability to turn off Bing web search.
What exactly is the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA)? It is a set of regulations designed to prevent major tech companies from using their market dominance to hinder competition. Under these regulations, Microsoft must be more accommodating and cannot compel users to rely solely on its services.
Additional notable changes are forthcoming, including a new "jump list" feature accessible via right-clicking on a pinned app. This feature will enable quick access to recent folders, files, or tasks related to an app when right-clicking on the Start menu or taskbar. However, Microsoft has not officially indicated that these changes will be introduced in other countries, so it may be best not to get our hopes up. Furthermore, in addition to these search enhancements, Microsoft is also testing an improved version of Windows Search within Copilot+.
Judy Sanhz is a Digital Trends computing writer focusing on all computing-related news and has a passion for all operating systems and devices.
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