Windows 11 Officially Shuts Down Firefox’s Default Browser Workaround (howtogeek.com)

Article summary

Microsoft has released an update for Windows 10 and Windows 11 that blocks workarounds used by browsers like Firefox to intercept 'microsoft-edge://' links, forcing them to open in the default Edge browser instead. This move has been seen as anticompetitive behavior by Microsoft, limiting user choice and promoting its own browser. The update affects links used by certain Windows features, such as Bing search from the start menu. A new tool, MSEdgeRedirect, has been developed to bypass this restriction, but it requires running in the background and is flagged by Microsoft's SmartScreen.

Main themes

• Microsoft's anticompetitive behavior
• Browser choice and user freedom
• Windows 11 and Edge integration
• Antitrust implications
• User backlash and criticism
• Alternative browsers and workarounds

What commenters say

• Microsoft's actions are seen as anticompetitive and restrictive of user choice, promoting its own browser over others.
• The use of 'microsoft-edge://' links is not deep integration, but rather a way to open normal web pages, and should respect the user's default browser choice.
• Some argue that Microsoft's behavior is a repeat of its past anticompetitive tactics, and that the company has not changed its ways.
• Others believe that Microsoft's actions are justified, as it needs to integrate its browser deeply into the OS for certain use cases, and that proprietary features and URLs are necessary for this integration.
• The issue is not just about setting a default browser, but also about Microsoft's applications ignoring the user's choice and forcing the use of Edge for certain links.
• Some commenters are concerned about the implications of Microsoft's actions for user freedom and the potential for further restrictions on user choice.
• A few commenters suggest that Microsoft's behavior is not surprising, given its history, and that users should expect such actions from the company.
• The use of alternative browsers and tools, such as LibreWolf, can help users avoid Microsoft's restrictions and telemetry.
• Microsoft's actions may have repercussions, and the company may face backlash from users and regulators over its anticompetitive behavior.