Recently, Windows 11 users have encountered a wave of notifications that have stirred quite a bit of conversation. Among these, an advertisement for the much-anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 has caught the eye of many. However, not all notifications have been focused on gaming; some users received prompts promoting Microsoft Defender and, indirectly, Microsoft 365. This dual approach to advertising has sparked criticism, leading to a flurry of articles highlighting Microsoft’s assertive marketing strategies within its operating system.
The initial discovery of these notifications was made by Windows Latest, which subsequently confirmed with Microsoft that these messages are indeed classified as “notifications.” For users who have not opted out of certain ad settings, a notification may appear featuring a “Buy Now” button for the Black Ops 6: Vault Edition. Additionally, another notification showcases Microsoft Defender, which, while free on Windows 11, requires a paid subscription to Microsoft 365 for full functionality.
Despite the mixed reception, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 has garnered praise for its engaging campaign, thrilling zombies mode, dynamic multiplayer options, and enhanced movement system. It stands out as one of the top Xbox releases of the year. Yet, the method of promoting this title through push notifications on Windows 11 has left some users feeling uneasy.
Advertising in Windows 11
Advertising on Windows 11 is not a novel concept. The community has expressed concerns over the increasing presence of ads within the operating system for some time now. The specific technique employed to deliver notifications for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Microsoft Defender is not unprecedented. However, the heightened visibility of the game has drawn attention to this marketing strategy.
How to disable ads in Windows 11
It is somewhat disheartening that there exists a guide on how to disable ads in Windows 11. The need for such a guide reflects the ongoing challenge users face with various forms of promotional content, including notifications and MSN feeds. In fact, ads have even made their way into File Explorer. To help mitigate this, here are the steps to block the specific ads promoting Call of Duty: Black Ops 6:
- Open the Windows 11 Settings app.
- Select System.
- Select Notifications.
- Scroll down and click Additional settings.
- Toggle “Get tips and suggestions when using Windows” off.
While these steps will help you block the specific ads related to Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Microsoft Defender, users may still need to navigate additional settings to eliminate all forms of advertising on Windows 11. For a more comprehensive approach, consider exploring guides that recommend features to disable across the operating system.
