It was clear when Microsoft announced Windows 10 S last night that this version of the Windows 10 operating system was going to be slightly more restrictive than the full version and today many are finding out just how restrictive it might be.
Spotted by The Verge, an official FAQ for Windows 10 S reveals that while other web browsers can be used if downloaded from the Windows Store (only Windows Store apps are allowed on Windows 10 S machines), it will be impossible to change the default file settings. In short, opening an htm file will always open Edge. Due to Microsoft’s efforts to make Edge an all-in-one app for reading pdfs and ebooks as well, it’s possible this could also affect other file types as well. It should theoretically be possible to open these files from within other open apps however. Maybe.
Something a bit more drastic is the decision to make Bing the default search engine for Edge and Internet Explore. What’s more is that it appears Microsoft will prevent users from changing this setting. A simple workaround for this problem would be to simply navigate to Google.com or the webpage of another search engine and simply search from there but when it comes to native searches in the browsers’ search/address bar, Windows 10 S users appear to be out of luck. Here’s the official wording:
Yes, Microsoft Edge is the default web browser on Microsoft 10 S. You are able to download another browser that might be available from the Windows Store, but Microsoft Edge will remain the default if, for example, you open an .htm file. Additionally, the default search provider in Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer cannot be changed.
Do these decisions frustrate you or are they not that big of a deal? Let us know in the comments below.
