Microsoft recently released a new optional preview update for Windows 11, which introduces a new feature. The changes included in this update are set to roll out to all Windows 11 devices as part of the May 2024 cumulative security update. The testing and rollout of this update occurred at a record pace, initially limited to Windows 11 users in the United States.

There were hints that the change might be pulled before it was implemented in stable versions of Windows 11. A slightly modified version of the feature has now been included in the optional update for Windows 11 Stable. Advertised apps now display a “promoted” label to distinguish them from user-installed apps.

For example, a screenshot shows a promotion for the Opera Browser with the “promoted” label and the description “browse safely.” It is unclear whether the descriptions for these listings are added by the product’s company or by Microsoft. Beyond this, it appears that not much else has changed.

The Recommended section of the Start menu will now include some Microsoft Store apps, sourced from a curated group of developers. This is designed to help users discover great apps that are available. Users have the option to disable this feature in the Windows 11 Start menu.

Do you have any thoughts on these updates?