Microsoft’s modernization of File Explorer in Windows 11 has been met with mixed reactions, but the corporation is also looking into new methods to commercialize the operating system. A new Windows 11 preview build (22572) shows indications that File Explorer may soon offer adverts for Microsoft applications and services in the form of suggestions.

Microsoft known for services like Microsoft Teams issued a new preview edition last week with a few unexpected capabilities that are more or less concealed and need some extra steps to unlock. Perhaps one of them indicates that File Explorer will eventually get a tabbed interface, which has been one of the most desired enhancements in recent years.

This week, a Windows Insider discovered a not-so-subtle change to File Explorer, implying that the company is trying out new ways to advertise its products all through the Windows UI. he saw an advertisement for Microsoft Editor (part of Office 365), the corporation’s AI-powered grammar and spelling help for Word, Outlook, and the web.

The advertisement appeared as a suggestion in the top right corner of a File Explorer window, underneath the address bar. he, however, had used Microsoft Editor for some time prior to viewing the advertisement. Earlier, the corporation utilized a similar strategy to push OneDrive and Microsoft 365 subscriptions, sometimes even to individuals who already had one or both.

Bombarding Windows customers with additional advertisements for their products may appear to someone in Redmond to be a wise strategy, but it is unlikely to be appreciated. Users of Windows 10 and Windows 11 have already been subjected to “recommended” applications and products during the out-of-the-box setup process, but at least it is something that you can swiftly move past.

For the time being, it looks that the File Explorer advertisement for Microsoft Editor is part of an A/B test, that might or might not result in it being included in the final build published to all customers. If the company does deploy the functionality, you’ll most probably be able to deactivate it via a checkbox or switch in Settings.

Underneath Settings —> System —> Notifications in Windows 11, a tick labeled “Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows” blocks the capability. In Windows 10, two related checkboxes are located in the same location: “Offer suggestions on how to set up my device” as well as “Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows.”