Microsoft makes default application settings in Windows 11 easier

[anggelfaith6]

Since its release in 2021, one of the most consistent criticisms of Windows 11 has been the handling of default apps. Compared to Windows 10 , the latest OS makes it even more difficult for users to set default applications.

For example, if you don't want Edge to open when you click on a web page or PDF, you're forced to launch Windows 11's Settings menu and change the default app based on file type and link. It was a long process and made Windows 11 seem convoluted.

Quoted from Engadget (20/3), Microsoft finally answered the criticism. The company founded by Bill Gates announced that it is reaffirming its old approach to putting people in control of their Windows experience. Microsoft also announced a feature that will ensure Windows 11 users are in control of changes to their default apps.

Later this year, Microsoft will introduce a link uniform resource identifier (URI) in a new version that will allow developers to send users to the correct section of the Settings menu when they want to change how Windows 11 responds to links and certain file types.

In addition, this change will also give users more control or what applications are embedded in their desktop. The start menu and taskbar with a new public API that will display prompts asking the user to grant program permissions before appearing on those interface elements.

The features will roll out to PCs enrolled on the Windows Insider Dev Channel in the coming months before arriving in the public release of Windows 11. Micorosfot mentions that they will 'lead by example' and release an update for Edge which will see additional browser support for when this feature is available.

[BoldTron]

The new URI feature sounds like it will make life a lot easier when it comes to setting your preferred apps. Plus, more control over what's on our desktop and those prompts for program permissions are great additions. These updates are a step in the right direction and will definitely improve the user experience in Windows 11.