Beyond the EU: Unleashing Windows’ Hidden Power!
Europe’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) gave EEA countries unprecedented control over Windows, letting users uninstall default apps and ditch automatic Microsoft sign-ins. But what if you could break free from these limitations wherever you are? This guide reveals the secrets to unlocking those DMA features globally, putting you in charge of your Windows experience, regardless of location.
What are the DMA Features in Windows
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is here to level the playing field in the digital world. For Microsoft, this means shaking things up in Windows, especially for users in the European Economic Area (EEA). Think of it as unlocking new possibilities and choices, as Microsoft unwinds features that favored its own services. Get ready for a Windows experience that putsyouin control, starting with these exclusive changes for EEA users.
Tired of browser wars? Declare a victor! Hitting “Set default” isn’t just a click; it’s a commitment. Your chosen browser reigns supreme, handling all compatible links and files. Plus, say goodbye to nagging Edge pop-ups Windows respects your decision.
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Third-Party Providers for Windows Search:you can add third-party search providers in Windows Search for results. Take Control: Your Microsoft Account, Your Apps. Windows won’t automatically grant access to your Bing, Edge, or Start feed. You decide when and where you’re signed in, putting you in the driver’s seat of your digital experience.
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Clearly Marks Apps:Windows will clearly mark system and third-party apps in Windows Search to distinguish.
If you want these and many more EEA-limited Windows features as well, below are two ways to enable them.
Manually Enable DMA Features in Windows
Unleash hidden Windows features by becoming a digital explorer! Delve into the “IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet” JSON file, your PC’s secret regional control panel. Tweak this code, adding your location to unlock region-specific functionalities previously hidden from view. Ready to bend Windows to your will? Let’s begin.
Ready to wrestle that JSON file into submission? Forget fumbling through menus – we’re seizing control with a single, powerful PowerShell command. Think of it as a digital declaration of ownership! First, summon the mighty PowerShell. Type “powershell” into Windows Search, then right-click “Windows PowerShell” and unleash its administrative fury with “Run as administrator.” Now, prepare to command:
“` takeown
/
f
“C:\Windows\System32\IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet.json”
icacls
“C:\Windows\System32\IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet.json”
/
grant
“Username:(F)”
“`
Replace “Username” with your own Windows username. For example, mine is “Karrar:(F)”. Also, if Windows isn’t on your C: drive, swap the “C” in the command with the correct drive letter.
Now move to “C:\Windows\System32”, look for the “IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet.json” file, right-click on it, and selectOpen with->Notepad.
Unlock hidden features! To activate, tweak your settings by adding your PC’s two-letter region code (e.g., “US” for the United States) to the region list of each feature. Simply enclose the code in quotes, separate it with commas, and watch the magic happen! Whether you’re in India (“IN”) or Singapore (“SG”), personalization awaits!
EEA users, unlock exclusive features designed just for you! Heads up: some functionalities are specifically toggled for regions like China or Russia. Double-check before assigning a region, or you might accidentally inherit their settings too!
When you are done, clickFile->Saveand restart the PC for changes to take effect.
Use the Wintoys App to Automatically Enable DMA Features
Want the Digital Markets Act features without the hassle? Wintoys offers a one-click solution. It flips the switch for all available DMA features, mimicking the manual process of tweaking your PC region within the IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet file. The tradeoff? Convenience trumps control. You get everything, whether you need it or not. Think of it as the express lane to DMA compliance.
Want to bend Windows to your will with a single switch? Wintoys makes it ridiculously easy. Fire up the app, then dive into the “Tweaks” section lurking on the left. Expand the “System” settings, and you’ll see a toggle labeled “Digital Markets Act.” Flip it on, reboot your PC, and BAM! Windows, reshaped by your command.
Heads up! Windows updates or system resets might undo these tweaks by reverting the IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet file. To safeguard your personalized settings, create a backup copy and stash it locally or in the cloud. This ensures a quick and painless restoration down the road.
Thanks for reading How to Unlock Digital Markets Act Features in Windows
