Users of Windows 10 who log in with local accounts might receive prompts to sign in to a Microsoft account upon accessing the Settings app. This functionality is gradually rolling out in release preview builds of Windows 10 and is expected to be included in a stable update, potentially the May 2024 security update for the operating system.
This feature was announced by Microsoft on the Windows Insider blog, stating: “The introduction of this update initiates the gradual rollout of account-related notifications for Microsoft accounts under Settings > Home”.
The notification is displayed to users logged in with local accounts. Microsoft emphasizes that utilizing a Microsoft account enables users to back up their device and enhance its security.
The backup function operates through the Windows Backup application, which isn’t a full backup solution but aids in transferring files from specific directories, Store applications, and certain settings to OneDrive.
Emphasis on Microsoft Account
Setting up Windows 11 with a local account has become less straightforward as Microsoft has made it less visible. While there are methods to bypass the requirement for a Microsoft account on Windows 11, it may involve executing commands through the command prompt.
Though Windows 10 doesn’t impose the same constraints as Windows 11 in this regard, Microsoft is evidently showing a preference for Microsoft accounts over local ones.
The capability to establish local accounts post initial setup remains feasible on both operating systems.
This new approach isn’t the first of its kind on Windows 10. In August 2023, Microsoft introduced a similar modification in the Start Menu. Local user profiles display an error badge emphasizing the advantages of utilizing a Microsoft account.
The new message in Settings features a close button, however, it solely dismisses the notification temporarily. Microsoft indicates that users can control these notifications under Settings > Privacy & Security > General.
Conclusion
Microsoft is actively promoting Microsoft accounts for multiple reasons:
- To boost subscriptions and other products necessitating a Microsoft account.
- To gather more insights about users utilizing a Microsoft account.
While using a Microsoft account offers advantages like online storage and data synchronization through said storage, it’s essential to consider privacy implications.
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