Windows 11 now has two Start menus, which sparked user outrage after Microsoft published AI-generated images.

Microsoft Uses AI‑Generated Images in the Windows Learning Center – User Reactions

In official Windows 11 guides, Microsoft began using images created by the Copilot chatbot. Each one is labeled “AI Art Created via Copilot.” This decision sparked a wave of discontent among users who not only criticize the use of AI itself but also that such pictures often do not match the actual look of the system interface.

What Happened
- Key content – sections with instructions on Windows 11 features.
- By the end of 2025, Copilot gained the ability to generate images at a ChatGPT level.
- Since then Microsoft has been using them in Learning Center materials.
- In 2026, the *Windows Latest* magazine noted that almost all posts have the caption “AI Art Created via Copilot” under embedded images, while cover images do not.

Why This Causes Disagreement
1. Accuracy – images may depict an interface that actually differs.
*Example*: An article about widgets shows a Widgets board panel differently than it appears on a user’s computer, making it hard to follow the instructions.
2. Copilot Marketing – Microsoft uses any opportunity to remind people of its AI chatbot. Captions under images become not just source indications but service advertising.
3. General Windows 11 Discontent – the system is already criticized for excessive focus on AI. Adding tags amplifies negative sentiment and fuels the hashtag “Microslop,” which is becoming more popular on social media (even false rumors about banning the word “Microslop” in Microsoft Store circulate).

What Users Say
- Learning Center materials are considered useful, but the AI label is seen as confirmation of existing complaints about Copilot.
- Some users consider switching to macOS or Linux, believing that Apple and open OSes better suit creative work.

What Can Be Done
Microsoft can regain user trust by:

- Reducing Copilot promotion in the interface and training materials.
- Emphasizing human creativity by offering real tools without an artificial AI “cloud.”
- Removing the prominent Copilot button from simple apps (Notepad, Paint) or making it less visible.

Thus, to restore Windows 11’s appeal, the company must shift focus from flashy AI promotion to supporting genuine creative processes.