Microsoft released a new optional preview update for Windows 11 this week that introduces a new feature. The changes included in this update will be rolled out to all Windows 11 devices as part of the May 2024 cumulative security update. The testing and rollout of the update happened at a record pace, initially being limited to Windows 11 users from the United States.

Concerns were raised about the possibility of the change being pulled before it was integrated into stable versions of Windows 11. A slightly modified version of the feature has now landed in the optional update for Windows 11 Stable. Advertised apps now have a “promoted” label to help distinguish them from user-installed apps.

The screenshot provided shows a promotion for the Opera Browser, which has the promoted label and the description “browse safely”. It remains unclear who adds these descriptions to listings, whether it is the company that owns the product or Microsoft. Aside from this change, there are no significant differences.

The Recommended section of the Start menu will display some Microsoft Store apps, which come from a small set of curated developers. This is designed to help users discover great apps that are available. However, there is the option to disable this feature in the Windows 11 Start menu.

In conclusion, the update introduces a new feature that distinguishes promoted apps and provides a more curated experience in the Windows 11 Start menu.