Microsoft stops Windows 11 advertising in Windows 10

In recent months, Windows 10 PCs have been seeing prompts from Microsoft to upgrade to Windows 11. These ads appeared regardless of whether the computer was Windows 11 ready or not – which is questionable in itself.

Annoying upgrade prompts

The impression was that Microsoft wanted to force users to upgrade their hardware for the new operating system or to buy new hardware. Now Microsoft seems to have finally responded to the ongoing complaints of users. As the Online magazine Windows Latest reported, Microsoft has now decided to turn off these “nuisance screens” for Windows 11. Until now, users were confronted with large splash screens touting the benefits of Windows 11 – a strategy that was met with little enthusiasm by many.

Microsoft’s decision to reduce upgrade prompts now comes after a wave of user feedback. We’ve reported on annoyed users before. The company first announced that it would expand the prompts starting with the monthly security update in April 2024, and then retracted that announcement. Then it said it would announce “a new schedule for future upgrade invitations.” That didn’t happen – on the contrary, delivery was paused.

While this news initially sounds positive, a residual amount of skepticism remains. Support for Windows 10 officially ends in October 2025, which means that Microsoft may try again to persuade users to switch in the future. However, there is hope for those who want to continue using Windows 10: The 0patch has announced that it will unofficially support the operating system for five years after the official end-of-life date. In addition, Microsoft seems to have quietly added an existing internet connection as a requirement for installing Windows 10.

It remains to be seen what Microsoft’s future strategy will be regarding the promotion of Windows 11. But at least for now, Windows 10 users can breathe a sigh of relief. Now it’s up to you: Are you still running Windows 10 and have you already seen the upgrade prompts? Discuss with us in the comments.