In this episode of “How to make Windows 11 more annoying,” Microsoft brings new Start menu ads to all users. KB5036980, the latest non-security update for Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2, brings app “recommendations” directly to the Start menu. Now, recommended content in your Start menu includes installed files, apps, tips, and ads Recently fortunately, you can turn it off.
Microsoft describes the change as follows:
New! The featured section of the Start menu will display some Microsoft Store apps. These apps come from a small group of developers gathered together. This will help you discover some of the great apps available.
You can turn off new Start Menu app ads in Windows 11 build 22621.3527 and 22631.3527 in the Settings app; Here’s how to do it:
to press Win+I To open the Settings app or launch it in any other method you want.
go to Personalization > Start.
turn off the “View recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more” possibility.
Microsoft Store app “recommendations” are unfortunately not the only questionable change coming soon to your Windows 11 PC. Build 22635.3500 (now available in the beta channel) introduces a new “Account Manager”, which replaces buttons like “Logout”, “Change User” and “Lockout” in the Microsoft 365 ad. Now, to sign out of your profile, you must first see your subscriptions, open a menu New modifier, and only then click “Exit”.
It didn’t take too long for Microsoft to bring Start Menu ads to all users (they’ll be coming to everyone as part of the May 2024 patch updates), so expect the new Account Manager soon, too.
You can also deal with all these “updates” by using a third-party start menu alternative or stacks. Just keep in mind that some of them will likely stop working soon.