Microsoft released a new optional preview update for Windows 11 this week, introducing a feature that will be included in the May 2024 cumulative security update for all Windows 11 devices. The testing and rollout of these changes were conducted at an accelerated pace, initially limited to Windows 11 users in the United States.

There was some uncertainty regarding the potential removal of the change 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 are identified with a “promoted” label, distinguishing them from user-installed apps. For example, the screenshot displays 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. Apart from the addition of the “promoted” label, there do not appear to be any other changes.

The Recommended section of the Start menu will now display some Microsoft Store apps from a curated set of developers, showcasing a selection of great apps available. Additionally, this update includes a feature for disabling the Recommended section in the Windows 11 Start menu.