The concept of ads in Windows has always been quite controversial, especially because many users believe that once they have paid for a product, Microsoft has no right to spam them with ads. Although this is a totally flawed approach, since users are actually paying for the right to use Windows (and not to own the software), the ads were never well received anyway.
But, it seems Microsoft doesn’t mind. The software giant is now experimenting with a new idea that is likely to fuel the frustration of its user community.
Indeed, Microsoft seems test new ads in Windows 11, this time in the logout menu. In other words, when you click on the start menu to access user session controls, you now see a OneDrive ad that doesn’t necessarily feel at home there.
“Back up your files,” reads the ad, which prompts users to head to OneDrive to move essential data to the cloud. This option is listed alongside essential Windows controls, such as locking the device, signing out, and changing account settings.
Windows 11 started showing ads in more and more parts of the operating system (OS). Microsoft already displays ads in File Explorer, Start menu and Wordpad. According to BleepingComputer, the company appears to be A/B testing the ads.
These ads were first spotted by Windows fan Albacore. The fact that BleepingComputer couldn’t replicate Albacore’s experience seems to indicate that the company is still testing to see how the ads will be received.
Do we really need to stuff OneDrive promos in the user session flyout? Anything for that sweet sweet KPI 😠pic.twitter.com/ZsQGmkntDS
—Yellow tuna (@thebookisclosed) November 6, 2022
Microsoft and advertising
Needless to say this revelation is not well receivedwith some users even pointing out that Microsoft’s actions could be the reason Windows 11 adoption is happening at an almost glacial pace.
Microsoft hasn’t officially announced this change, but at this point it looks like the company is just experimenting with the idea. So not all users see the new OneDrive ad, and to be honest, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the software giant pull this controversial idea completely before it hits more devices.
However, for now, Microsoft apparently hasn’t given up on the idea of ​​introducing ads into Windows. The software giant still believes that ads should be part of the Windows experience, so it’s not necessarily surprising that various experiences pop up from time to time (thankfully not making their way to production devices).