Microsoft Accounts to Be Promoted on Windows 10’s Start Menu

Commencing early 2023, Microsoft has initiated trials for showcasing promotions within the Start Menu on its Windows 11 operating system. These promotional materials have been integrated into subsequent Windows 11 versions and are scheduled for launch on Windows 10 platforms in the ensuing month.

Upon selecting the profile icon in the Start Menu, users will encounter these promotions that provide swift access to crucial notifications linked to their accounts, as outlined by Microsoft.

Users logged into Windows will receive notifications prompting them to back up their files or safeguard their memories. Conversely, those logged in with a local account might notice an error badge instead. This strategy aims to engage local account users and motivate them to transition to a Microsoft account.

Local users will receive prompts such as “sign in to your Microsoft account,” “enjoy Microsoft 365 for free,” or “enhance your account security” upon clicking or tapping the profile icon.

In the near future, customers using Windows 10 will also start witnessing these promotions on their systems. This alteration was rolled out by Microsoft in the latest Release Preview build specific to Windows 10. Typically, these modifications are introduced as an optional update on the fourth Tuesday of the month, followed by a universal release for all Windows 10 devices on the second Tuesday of the subsequent month.

Below is the complete message from Microsoft announcing the debut of these promotions:

“This update broadens the deployment of notification badges for Microsoft accounts within the Start Menu. A Microsoft account serves as the conduit connecting Windows to your Microsoft applications. This account performs data backups and aids in managing your subscriptions. Additionally, you can implement extra security measures to prevent unauthorized access. This functionality ensures quick access to vital account-related notifications.”

It is possible to disregard these promotions.

For Windows 11 users, the option to disable these promotions is available through the following steps:

1. Access Settings, either by navigating via Start > Settings or utilizing the Windows-I keyboard shortcut.
2. Proceed to Personalization > Start.
3. Switch off the “Show account-related notifications in Start” option.

It is anticipated that Microsoft will introduce a comparable setting for Windows 10 devices.

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