The next Windows 11 update will add embedded ads to the system

Microsoft has begun rolling out update KB5036980 for Windows 11, which includes a new feature in the Start menu - ad placements previously tested among members of the Windows Insiders program.

With the new update, the Start menu will have a section with recommended apps from the Microsoft Store picked by a small group of curated developers, as Microsoft specifies. According to The Verge, the menu ads have only been tested for two weeks, which is significantly shorter than the company's usual testing period for new features.

Windows 11 users have the option to disable ads through the Start menu personalization settings, where after installing the KB5036980 update, there will be a corresponding option to manage advertising offers and recommendations.

The rollout of the KB5036980 update will last for several weeks.