Microsoft Revamps Windows 11 Start Menu Search for Clarity and Compliance

Microsoft Tackles EU Regulations with Enhanced Windows 11 Search Experience

EU rules listed under the Digital Markets Act are driving a significant change to the search experience in Windows 11 for European Economic Area (EEA) users.

In an effort to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, Microsoft is tweaking the search feature in Windows 11 to better align with the EEA’s regulations. Normally, the Start menu search in Windows 11 combines local and web search results, with the latter powered by Bing. However, this change will separate these results, providing users with a more transparent and user-friendly search experience.

A New Search Experience

In the updated Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27764, a new search window will feature two distinct sections: "Windows" and "Web search from Bing." This design change aims to make it easier for users to identify the sources of their search results and navigate to the information they’re looking for.

The EU’s Regulatory Push

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is a set of regulations designed to promote fairer competition in the tech industry, particularly with regards to search engines and web browsers. Microsoft’s compliance with these regulations is seen as a crucial step in ensuring that its dominant position in the market doesn’t hinder competition.

What Does This Mean for Users?

The separation of search results will lead to a less cluttered and more intuitive search experience in Windows 11. Searching for files or apps on your PC will yield more relevant results, making it easier to find what you need without the distraction of irrelevant online content.

Other Upcoming Changes to Windows 11

In addition to this change, Microsoft has also introduced features like the ability to uninstall Microsoft Edge and disable Bing web search, also in line with the EU’s regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

While this change may seem minor, it highlights the significant influence of regulatory bodies like the EU on the tech industry. As Microsoft continues to adapt to these changes, it’s apparent that their priorities will continue to shift in response to external pressures. For now, users can look forward to a more refined search experience in Windows 11, while also embracing the company’s efforts to comply with EU regulations.