The future of Windows might feature a reduction in ads and distracting upsell prompts.

      Microsoft is aiming to create a “calmer” operating system with fewer upsells and distractions.

      Microsoft appears to be tackling one of the most frustrating aspects of Windows 11: the frequent advertisements and upselling. Scott Hanselman, a key engineering figure behind the new updates for Windows, stated that the company is striving to make Windows 11 a more “calm and relaxed OS with fewer upsells,” particularly in areas such as the Start menu and system notifications.

      Scott Hanselman confirmed the intent for a more serene and tranquil OS with diminished upsells via a tweet on March 21, 2026.

      This effort is in response to years of user criticism regarding the persistent nudges toward services like Edge, OneDrive, Microsoft 365, and even Copilot, often in unexpected places.

      Why is Microsoft scaling back on ads?

      Over time, Windows 11 has evolved into a platform that not only operates applications but also advertises them. From the recommendations in the Start menu to prompts during setup and full-screen nudges, Microsoft has been aggressively promoting its ecosystem. Even employees within Microsoft have recognized this issue. The aim for a “calmer” experience signifies the company's acknowledgment that Windows has become somewhat overwhelming and needs adjustment.

      That being said, don’t anticipate the complete removal of ads. The objective seems to be diminishing the clutter rather than eradicating it.

      What changes are on the horizon?

      The primary change is straightforward: Windows will attempt to promote fewer products. Microsoft plans to minimize advertisements in the Start menu and the operating system while enhancing performance, refining the user interface, and reducing unnecessary prompts to create a smoother, less intrusive experience.

      In terms of additional changes, Microsoft is also looking at user-friendly adjustments, such as possibly eliminating the mandatory Microsoft account sign-in during setup, reinstating a movable taskbar, optimizing Windows 11 for better performance with 8GB of RAM to compete with devices like the MacBook Neo, and reconsidering the how integrated Copilot AI is within the OS. Collectively, it seems Microsoft is shifting its focus from aggressive service promotion to enhancing the core user experience.