Microsoft has been receiving constant criticism for its handling of app defaults in Windows 11 since its release in 2021. Compared to its predecessor, Windows 10, the newer operating system makes it more difficult for users to move away from Microsoft’s first-party offerings. The customization process is convoluted, requiring users to navigate through multiple menus to change default apps by file and link type. However, in a recent blog post, Microsoft announced that it is addressing these criticisms and reaffirming its commitment to putting users in control of their Windows PC experience.
To address these concerns, Microsoft is introducing a new deep link uniform resource identifier (URI) later this year. This feature will enable developers to send users to the appropriate section of the Settings menu when they want to change how Windows 11 responds to specific file types and links. This will give users more control over the apps they use and streamline the customization process.
Microsoft is also providing users with greater control over what apps are pinned to their desktop, start menu, and taskbar. With a new public API, programs must request permission from users before they can appear on these interface elements. Both of these features will initially roll out to PCs enrolled in the Windows Insider Dev Channel in the coming months before becoming available to the general public. Microsoft has also committed to leading by example and updating Edge to support these features as they become available.
Overall, Microsoft’s efforts to address the criticisms of Windows 11’s app default handling will give users greater control over their experience and make customization less convoluted. The new features will soon be available to Windows Insider Dev Channel users, with a public release expected in the near future.
