Microsoft is known for adding ads to their operating systems, and Windows 10 is no exception. Recently, users reported that Microsoft is now showing group ads when trying to ‘get help’ on Windows 10. Microsoft works hard to promote features, products, and services in Windows 11 Or Windows 10. According to GHacks, the latest place Microsoft is publishing ads is in the Help app.
What are Group Ads?
When users try to “get help” in Windows 10, they are now shown ads for Microsoft Teams. When users open the Get Help app and ask for help on their computer, a banner about Microsoft Teams Essentials and a learn more link are displayed to guide users. To the Microsoft Teams Essentials webpageLogo can be rejected manually.
This is a new development that surprises many users. Ads are displayed in the form of pop-ups that appear when users click on the Get Help button.
Microsoft’s ad reads:
Increase productivity and collaboration while staying organized with new conferencing solutions designed for small businesses. Learn more.”
Why are these ads annoying?
These ads are annoying because they interrupt the user’s workflow and are distracting. Users who are trying to solve a problem with their computer may not want to see an ad for Microsoft Teams. Additionally, some users may not be interested in using Microsoft Groups and may find these ads intrusive.
Further, The ad banner is a bit annoying as it appears to be showing the same Teams Essentials ad Regardless of which system you’re using, the topic isn’t entirely related to teams. Therefore, if the user wants to know something about the computer, the Teams Essentials link will not be useful.
How to remove group ads
Fortunately, there are several ways to remove group ads from Windows 10. Here are some solutions you can try.
Solution 1: Disable allowing apps to use your advertising identifier
One way to remove group ads is to disable allowing apps to use your ad ID. This can be done by following these steps:
- Go to Settings > Privacy > General.
- Disable allowing apps to use your ad ID.
This will prevent Windows 10 from using your advertising ID to serve targeted ads, including Teams ads.
Solution 2: Use a third-party tool
Another way to remove group ads is to use a third-party tool. However, this is not recommended as these tools can be unreliable and cause other problems on your computer. It is best to use the built-in Windows 10 settings to remove ads.
Solution 3: Disable Microsoft Store ads
If you want to disable all Microsoft Store ads, including group ads, you can do so by following these steps:
- Go to Settings > Privacy > General.
- Allow Windows to track application launches to improve search and startup results.
- Turn off the Show Windows Welcome experience after updates and sometimes the login to highlight new and recommended ones.
This will disable all Microsoft Store ads, including group ads.
Conclusion
In May, Microsoft And settings that showed advertising for Microsoft 365 pushed more advertising content into the app. Previously, ads for Microsoft 365 appeared in Windows 10 OOBE. In April, Microsoft pushed MSN News and Ads into the redesigned Windows 11 Weather app. Then the icon was removed and the tools were put in its place.
Microsoft’s decision to show Teams ads when users try to “get help” in Windows 10 has faced criticism from users. However, there are several ways to remove these ads, including allowing apps to use the ad ID and disabling Microsoft Store ads. By following these steps, users can remove ads from groups and enjoy a more streamlined experience on Windows 10.
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