Add items to the "Open with" list in Windows 8

When I look at files in the Windows-8.1 file explorer, I can right-click a file and select "Open With" to choose a program that allows me to open that file. For instance: when I select a PDF file, I can choose Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Reader, some MS PDF viewer and Firefox.

I do no want to change the default program (which is Acrobat in my case), but I want to add another program I've written myself and that allows me to inspect the PDF syntax.

Currently, I need to use "Choose default program...", uncheck "Use this app for all .pdf file" and than select that specific program in "More options." That involves quite some clicks and I would like the program of my choice to show up as the second or third item in the list that is provided when I click on "Open with..."

I've Googled around, but all answers refer to something called "Group Policy Management Console" which is apparently something that is available on Windows Server and that allows administrators to configure policies for multiple users. I'm a single user on a single PC; I don't think I have (access to) this "Group Policy Management Console" (I can't find it).

Is there another way to expand the list of apps when I click on "Open with..."?

Bruno Lowagie

Posted 2013-12-18T13:17:20.657

Reputation: 195

Answers

The answer is ridiculously simple - just make sure your application has disk:\path_to\your_app.exe.ApplicationCompany string with any meaning e.g. Soopa-troopa soft in [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Local Settings\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\MuiCache].

After creating this registry key open desired file with your application and it will appear in Open with list.

user310030

Posted 2013-12-18T13:17:20.657

Reputation: 86

As I had to install a new computer, I forgot how to add a exe to "Open with...", so I looked up the initial answer I accepted (and that works perfectly) and discovered this second answer. I tried it, and it works. Although I like the initial answer, this answer is a more accurate answer to the actual question. – Bruno Lowagie – 2014-08-21T14:54:20.257

There is a program mentioned in another Question. Maybe it will do the trick. It's called 'Default Programs Editor'. The changelog says its old though. Last update from 2010. There is also an answers which dives deep into the topic.

sthag

Posted 2013-12-18T13:17:20.657

Reputation: 21

Aha, I'm working on my old Windows 7 machine now, but I'll try it on Windows 8.1 in the weekend and accept the answer if it works (I already upvoted it). – Bruno Lowagie – 2013-12-19T16:11:53.973

The suggestion you made didn't solve my problem, in the sense that I added my home-made .exe to the "Open with..." list without any effect. I can change the list, but apparently only with a set of "registered" apps (and my .exe isn't registered). However, your suggestion did help me out as I was able to add my .exe to the Context menu. I now have the option to choose "Inspect PDF" in which case my .exe is executed. That really helps me out. – Bruno Lowagie – 2013-12-19T17:30:06.337

I think an application in windows 8 has to be registered for the specific mime type to be used for entries in the "open with" list. I found some other solutions. I post them later, no time right now. I'm glad I could help for now. – sthag – 2013-12-19T18:01:39.890