Microsoft has recently announced that they will begin testing embedded advertising content in the Start interface of Windows 11 beta versions in the United States. This move is part of their efforts to increase advertising revenue and promote app content that can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store.
The feature, currently only available in the beta version, will display recommended app content directly in the Start interface. While the content is currently focused on app recommendations, it is unclear if other types of advertising will be added in the future. Users have the option to turn off this feature by disabling the Show application promotion suggestions in the personalization settings, although it is enabled by default.
In addition to the embedded advertising content, Microsoft is also testing a new version of the Windows Spotlight interface in this update. This update aims to make it easier for users to manage connected devices and introduces the new Copilot function to Windows 11. The update also includes fixes for various known issues.
It is uncertain whether this advertising feature will become an official project and be extended to versions outside the United States. However, Microsoft has a history of promoting advertising content in their software services to boost advertising revenue. Stay tuned for more updates as Microsoft continues to test and refine this new feature.