14 DAY TRIAL // Recent reports have revealed that Windows 10 is now displaying what seem to be ads right on the lock screen, getting users to the store, where they can download or purchase a specific application or game.
And while these are serious accusations, given the fact that ads in Windows 10 could make users refuse the upgrade to the new OS, it’s all because of settings that customers can enable or disable all by themselves.
In a statement we received this morning, Microsoft says that these are just app recommendations that anyone can disable from the Windows 10 Settings app. But in the end, it’s all because the company wants to improve the experience with Windows 10, a company spokesperson has told us.
“With the release of Windows 10 Home in July 2015, we made several updates to the new Windows Store to increase app discovery, including App Suggestions in the Lock Screen and Start Menu. Lock and Start content is programmed by Microsoft to help customers learn and discover new features and apps to enhance their Windows 10 experience. Customers have the ability to turn off this feature,” the statement reads.
How to disable app suggestions
Interestingly, while app recommendations in the Start menu had already been spotted in Windows 10 in late 2015, the lock screen ads are still a new thing and are only now showing up on a number of devices upgraded to the new operating system.
Microsoft hasn’t explained why these lock screen app recommendations have started reaching the lock screen only now since they were implemented in July 2015, but in the meantime, anyone can block them anyway.
To do it, simply launch the Settings app and go to Personalization > Lock screen to disable the option that says, “Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lockscreen.” Once you do that, app suggestions are no longer supposed to be displayed anywhere across the OS.