In recent times, there has been a noticeable change in the approach adopted by Microsoft towards the evolution of Windows. Some argue that this transition commenced with the unveiling of Windows 11, the most recent OS by Microsoft, while others harken back to Windows 10 in 2015.
This shift, probably steered by the senior executives at Microsoft, entails leveraging the operating system for advertising and revenue generation purposes. Although Microsoft possesses the autonomy to modify the OS as needed, some users perceive these intrusions as disruptive. Certain advertisements cannot be permanently concealed or removed, potentially leading to disruptions during critical instances.
Microsoft has deployed various advertising tactics within Windows, encompassing ads in the user session menu, advertisements within the Get Help application, third-party ads on Copilot, lock screen ads, and utilizing diagnostic data for advertising purposes. These instances indicate the surging trend of advertising within the Windows ecosystem.
Projected Surge in Ads and Marketing Campaigns
Microsoft is continuously experimenting with fresh functionalities that could introduce a higher volume of ads and marketing campaigns. A Windows enthusiast identified as PhantomOfEarth divulged that Microsoft is enhancing the Recommended section of the Start Menu to feature promotions for applications.
The pervasiveness of ads in Windows might become more conspicuous as Microsoft contemplates integrating app promotions in this section. Users who choose to abstain from this section might miss these advertisements and promotions, accentuating the advertising focus within Windows.
Microsoft has amended the relevant setting under Personalization > Start > Show recommendations for tips, app promotions, and more to elucidate the potential showcasing of app promotions.
Previously, Microsoft had experimented with website recommendations in beta versions, but these were eliminated before the final release, providing relief to users.
Another probable area for advertisements in Windows 11 is a novel taskbar button labeled “Recommended,” hinting at forthcoming app or service recommendations that may encompass advertisements.
Image Source: StockStudio Aerials / Shutterstock
