Access Hidden Features in Windows with the Digital Markets Act Unlocking

In response to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), Windows has equipped users in the European Economic Area (EEA) with enhanced control over default features. This includes the option to uninstall pre-installed Windows applications and the prevention of automatic sign-ins to Microsoft programs. Remarkably, with a few adjustments, users worldwide can also access similar functionalities. This article details how to enable DMA features universally on Windows.

Understanding DMA Features in Windows

The Digital Markets Act aims to maintain fairness and competition in the digital marketplace. As Microsoft traditionally favors its own applications within Windows, compliance with the DMA necessitates significant alterations. Below is a summary of the key features available exclusively to users in the EEA:

Uninstall Default Windows Apps: Users can remove essential Windows applications such as Microsoft Edge, the Photos app, and the Windows Store through the standard uninstallation process.

Uninstalling Microsoft Edge in Windows 11

Default Browser Management: The “Set default” feature assigns your chosen browser to handle all compatible links and file types, thus eliminating prompts to revert to Edge.
Integration of Third-Party Providers for Windows Search: Users can incorporate third-party search engines into Windows Search results.
No Automatic Sign-in to Microsoft Apps: Windows will not sign into Microsoft applications like Bing or Edge automatically unless the user performs the sign-in.
Distinct App Identification: Windows will indicate clearly which apps are system-installed versus third-party in Windows Search results.

If you desire similar functionality to these EEA-exclusive features no matter your location, the following two methods allow you to unlock them.

How to Manually Enable DMA Features in Windows

For maximum control over your settings, manual configuration of the features is recommended. This involves editing the IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet JSON file in Windows, which governs feature implementations based on geographic regions. Follow these steps to modify it:

First, you’ll need to take ownership of the JSON file for editing. Although you can manually do this, utilizing a PowerShell command streamlines the process. Begin by searching for “powershell” in Windows Search, right-click on Windows PowerShell, and select Run as administrator. Execute the following command:

takeown /f "C:\Windows\System32\IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet.json"icacls "C:\Windows\System32\IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet.json" /grant "Username:(F)"

Taking ownership of file using command in command prompt

Replace “Username” with your actual Windows username (e.g., Karrar:(F)).If Windows is installed on a drive other than C, adjust the command to reflect the correct drive letter.

Opening Integratedservice region file in Notepad

In this JSON file, you’ll see features listed alongside their names, default states, and designated regions. To enable region-specific features, insert the 2-letter code corresponding to your location (enclosed in quotes and separated by commas) in the region-enabled/disabled section of each feature. For instance, if your region is the USA, add “US”. For India or Singapore, use “IN” or “SG” respectively.

Adding region in Integratedservicesregionpolicyset file

Be mindful that features available to a wider range of EU countries are exclusive to EEA users. Some features are specifically toggled for select nations like China or Russia, so only add your region to those which are universally enabled.

Once finished, select File > Save and restart your PC for the modifications to take effect.

Using Wintoys App to Automatically Activate DMA Features

For a more streamlined approach, the Wintoys application can be used to automate the enabling of DMA features with just a single toggle. This app performs the same function as manually adding your PC’s region to every relevant feature in the IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet file. Do note, however, that this method provides no option to selectively enable or disable features; it applies to all.

After launching the Wintoys app, navigate to the Tweaks tab, then expand the System section. Activate the toggle for Digital Markets Act and restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

Keep in mind, these settings may revert if a Windows update modifies the IntegratedServicesRegionPolicySet file or if your system is reset. It’s advisable to back up this JSON file locally or in the cloud for easy restoration later.

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