Windows 11 Start Menu ads appear for all users: How to turn them off

Windows 11’s Start menu is getting an update that may leave some users feeling irritated. Microsoft is rolling out ads in the Start menu with the new Windows 11 update expected to hit all users this week. These ads appear as part of the recommended section, and the tech giant offers them as a discovery feature to learn about “great” apps on the Microsoft Store. However, for those who prefer to keep their Start menu clean and free of unsolicited ads, there is an easy solution to disable them.

The personalized ads are part of Microsoft’s Windows update KB5036980, which was in preview for the past two weeks. According to a report from The Verge, the company began testing with ads earlier this month. Now, on to yours support page, the tech giant revealed the addition of ads and said: “The Recommended section of the Start menu will show some Microsoft Store apps. These apps come from a small set of handpicked developers. This will help you discover some of the great apps out there.”

Some users are reportedly already seeing these ads. Currently, the recommended tab shows recently used files and apps, but based on some screenshots we’ve seen online, ads will start appearing in that area. Interestingly, there are no visual cues to identify an advertised app versus what you already have, other than the user’s knowledge of installed apps. There’s one small clue — while all other installed apps show the time they were last used, promoted apps come with a little description for it.

Fortunately, Microsoft isn’t pushing these ads on users without any recourse. The company also explained an easy method to disable these ads. Some users may find value in these ads as they are curated by select developers and can help discover useful apps. However, if you prefer not to see them and want to return the original look of the Start menu, you can follow these steps.

1. Click on the Start menu.
2. Find it Settings application and click on it.
3. Click on Personalization.
4. Within Personalization menu, find Get started and click on it.
5. Look for the fourth option from the above heading Show recommendations for tips, app promotions, and more.
6. Turn off the switch for the option.
7. Ads must be disabled for you.