KB5050105 to the Windows 11 Insider Beta Channel introduces Xbox ads in the Settings cards
It might frustrate a lot of Windows users.
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A while ago, Microsoft introduced Settings cards in Windows 11 to simplify the experience of navigating the operating system and allow users to access the settings they most often change quickly.
These cards are focused on specific Settings areas, such as Display or Audio configurations, but Microsoft has also added one that focuses on Xbox Game Pass.
However, it seems that the Redmond-based tech giant has turned the Xbox card within Windows 11 Settings in the form of a call to action turned ad that encourages Windows users to recruit their squad, as in to share a 14-day free trial of PC Game Pass with up to 5 friends. The new ad has been added in the latest KB5050105 patch to the Beta Channel in the Windows Insider Program.
Alongside the new message, the card allows users to invite friends and manage the PC Game Pass subscription.
However, Microsoft says the new card will only appear in Settings if Windows 11 users are signed with their Microsoft account and meet the required criteria.
Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers coming to the Settings homepage will begin to see a new card for referring a PC Game Pass subscription to their friends to try it for free. This new card will only appear on the Settings homepage if you’re signed into your PC with your Microsoft account and meet the required eligibility criteria.
While some users may be interested, it still feels like Microsoft is trying to advertise its PC Game Pass in areas where it shouldn’t, and ultimately, this might cause a lot of frustration among Windows users. It’s not like Microsoft would learn: the company has a history of plastering its products and services with ads wherever it can, such as the endless ads for making Microsoft Edge the default browser.
Aside from the new card, KB5050105 also brings new improvements to the Snap option in Windows 11: users should be able to see additional information when using this feature.
You can read the patch’s full notes here.
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