It was recently discovered that Microsoft is testing a new way to display ads in Windows 11, directly through the system’s File Explorer. Criticism of the measure is also rapidly spreading through various means.
After discovering it, many users confirmed that they also started receiving ads. However, it looks like this could have been made available as a test by Microsoft in error – and it wasn’t something that should ever be brought up to the general public.
Brandon LeBlanc, Senior Manager of the Windows Team, revealed in an interview with Al Bawaba the edge That advertisement tests in Windows 11’s File Explorer should not be sent to the general public, as they were part of the company’s internal experience.
This means that making it available to the public could be a bug, but that doesn’t rule out the possibility that the company will integrate it in the future on File Explorer. As verified by users who have received the functionality, the ad appears correctly and as expected, which at least leaves the idea that Microsoft is testing this possibility – whether or not it will reach everyone is another question.
Note that this isn’t the first time Microsoft has tested advertising for Windows File Explorer. In 2017, the company did something similar with Windows 10, to test advertising for OneDrive services. Although this ad can be removed quickly, there will be additional steps to be taken for a system that has, until now, been free of it.
There are also criticisms associated with the data collection that this ad can do, as well as the way it is presented – whether or not it is tailored to each user.
George Orwell is a writer and contributor covering politics, society, culture, and current affairs. His work focuses on providing clear analysis and thoughtful commentary on the issues shaping modern Britain and the wider world, helping readers better understand complex topics.
