Microsoft promises to make Windows 11 more flexible and calm

Microsoft announced a reduction of advertising and recommendation elements in Windows 11

In March Microsoft introduced a major update focused on performance improvements:

- speeding up File Explorer;
- moving the Start menu to WinUI 3 (currently React);
- allowing users to completely pause automatic updates;
- reducing Copilot integration in apps.

However, the company also decided to cut back on advertising offers and recommendations to make the OS “quieter” and restore user trust.

Why it matters
* Windows 11 has a low rating – this year’s first update caused BitLocker issues, reduced gaming performance, boot failures, and a “black screen of death” on some computers.
* Aggressive Copilot integration became the main source of dissatisfaction. Users called it “Microslop” (junk) and even pushed back against corporate audiences.

In response, Microsoft is in an anti‑crisis mode: plans include removing the requirement for a Microsoft account during initial setup (OOBE) and rethinking built‑in advertising campaigns.

Key statements
* Scott Hanselman (vice‑president & technologist, Microsoft) confirmed the new direction on X. He noted the goal – to create a “quieter and more relaxed OS with fewer forced offers.”
* This message came after a user complaint that criticized Microsoft’s tactics as “malware” for promoting Edge and Bing.

What has already changed
* After waves of outrage, Bing Chat pop‑ups disappeared.
* However, advertising for Microsoft 365, OneDrive, and Copilot still appears in settings and the Start menu.

Conclusion

Although this statement is not an official product announcement, it clearly demonstrates developers’ intent to make Windows 11 more comfortable and less intrusive.