Redmond, Washington – Microsoft has announced that it will be testing advertisements within the Start menu on the latest version of Windows, Windows 11. The tech giant plans to display app recommendations from the Microsoft Store in the Recommended section of the Start menu, typically used for suggesting files.
The ads will only be visible to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel in the United States and will not affect commercial devices managed by organizations. Users will have the option to disable app promotions in the Settings section of Windows 11, although Microsoft may enable them by default. The company is actively seeking feedback on these changes and suggests that they may reconsider including ads in future builds if they are not well-received.
Windows testers are encouraged to provide feedback on the new ads to determine their impact on the final version of Windows 11. By collecting user input, Microsoft hopes to make informed decisions on whether or not to proceed with including ads in future releases.
The decision to introduce ads in the Start menu reflects Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to explore new revenue streams and advertising opportunities within its software ecosystem. As the company navigates the evolving landscape of digital advertising, users can expect to see more experiments with ad placements and formats across various Microsoft products.
Overall, the introduction of ads in the Start menu signals a potential shift in Microsoft’s approach to monetizing its software platforms. As the tech industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how users and stakeholders respond to these changes and what implications they may have for the future of Windows and other Microsoft products.