Microsoft may be planning to place ads in Windows 11 Start menu, starts beta-testing the ‘feature’

Microsoft has announced that it will start testing a new feature that will let it show advertisements right within its Windows 11 operating system.

To be specific, Microsoft will start showing ads on the Start menu on Windows 11, under the recommended section of the menu. Normally, this space is used for file recommendations and works in lieu of a quick search. However, after the update, the location will now show suggested apps from the Microsoft Store.

To be clear, these ads will only be visible to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel located in the United States initially and will not be rolled out for the general public or other commercial devices managed by organizations, as stated by Microsoft in a recent blog post. However, based on how the test goes, Microsoft may roll the feature out to Windows globally.

Although users will have the option to disable these app promotions in the Settings section of Windows 11, Microsoft is expected to enable them by default. However, the company is actively seeking feedback on these changes, indicating that it may reconsider including ads in future builds of Windows 11 if feedback suggests they are unpopular.

This isn’t the first time Microsoft has explored incorporating ads into its operating system. Last year, the company experimented with ads within the File Explorer of Windows 11 before discontinuing the trial in beta versions.

Microsoft has a history of experimenting with ads in Windows for over a decade, including promotional spots on the Windows 10 lock screen and within the Start menu.

Now, it’s essential for Windows testers to provide feedback on these changes. Their input will influence whether Microsoft decides to proceed with including ads in the final release of Windows 11 or not.

(With inputs from agencies)