Microsoft has now started testing ads in the Start menu in the latest Windows 11 Insider Edition update. The ads will suggest new apps to users from the Microsoft App Store based on their usage.
Microsoft Inserts Ads in Windows 11
The Windows 11 KB5036980 update in the Insider Program has introduced ads in the Start menu. Such ads were already present in previous versions of Windows 10, but these are a new addition in Windows 11. Microsoft says that these ads will recommend apps from specific developers only.
The company has also clarified that ads will only be shown to users in the Insider Channel. Users whose machine is managed by their company are exempted from these app suggestions.
Several users have already received the update, and have reported that ads have become visible on their Windows 11 computer. However, it is suggested that Microsoft does not include visual elements like ‘Ad’ or something else to specify app suggestions.
The only way to differentiate between the two is by looking below the app name. System apps will show the last time when it was used whereas a suggested app will have a small description of that app. While the company says these recommendations will be helpful, this move has left some Windows users annoyed.
How to disable ads in Windows 11 Start Menu
- Click on the Start Menu and go to Settings.
- Now select Personalization and locate the Start menu from the options.
- Search for the option that says Show recommendations for tips, app, promotions, and more and Disable this toggle.
- Close the Settings window.
