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The promotional spots are back in Windows 11.
Image Credits: Microsoft, Windows Spotlight
The recent news of Microsoft testing app promotions in the Windows 11 Start menu has sparked a heated discussion among users and made them voice disappointment in implementing advertisements in the system that could use better functions such as advanced search syntax, because typing not exact file name will still lead you to Edge browser tabs instead of your own computer files.
However, this isn't the first time Microsoft has placed ads inside its OC. There are already ads on the Windows lock screen as a part of the Windows Spotlight feature as shown in the image above, and back in 2022, the tech giant was experimenting with a new type of banner ad in Windows 11's File Explorer. While the ads can be easily disabled, they're still a frustrating experience in paid software.
Image Credits: Microsoft, Windows 11
Recently, Microsoft announced that they've started testing the recommended app section in the Start menu of Windows 11, which usually suggests apps from the Microsoft Store.
"Building on top of recent improvements like grouping recently installed apps and showing your frequently used apps, we are now trying out recommendations to help you discover great apps from the Microsoft Store under Recommended on the Start menu.
This will appear only for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel in the U.S. and will not apply to commercial devices (devices managed by organizations)", says Microsoft in a blog post.
As usual, the app promotions can be disabled in Settings, but Microsoft will enable these by default. The company is looking for feedback from testers in The Windows Insider Program on these changes, so it’s possible this idea won't make it to Windows 11 after all.
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