Bing Everywhere: Microsoft Forces Default Search Engine on Windows 11
Microsoft has developed an application called Microsoft Recommended Search Settings that forces Bing as the default search engine across all browsers on Windows 11, including Chrome, Firefox, and Brave. The standalone executable app is hosted on Microsoft's official download servers and does not require installation through Windows Update or the Microsoft Store.
The app prompts users to add extensions to their installed browsers, which then switches to Bing as the default search engine. After completing the installation process, users are redirected to the Microsoft Rewards page, a bribe for switching to Bing.
Xeno Panther, a Windows tester, first discovered the executable file called MicrosoftSettings.exe, which asks users if they want to change their default search to Bing and then opens the rewards.bing.com/m365offer page once setup finishes.