Windows 8.1 is a great improvement over Windows 8. But the one thing that irks me is the deep integration of Microsoft services into the new Metro/Modern interface. Bing is now integrated into every search ran in the start menu.
I know we have to ability to disable Bing within the metro settings. And disabled I did, as frankly, I do not trust Bing with my searching; however, since the option to search is there, I want to tweak the search provider to my pleasing.
I know in the EU there was a order given to Microsoft about allowing any search engine to be set in Internet Explorer, rather than just their own. I am hoping this might allow the user in Windows 8.1 to also switch the OS search engine.
So my question: Is there a way to switch the OS level search engine provider to, for example, Google? (Not just within Internet Explorer)
Best Answer
I've asked this Gov Maharaj from Microsoft and I got the answer that is it not possible. There are no registry keys you can edit to change the search engine. You can only turn it off.
Watch one of the next episodes, he should answer it there.