Microsoft is integrating O365 and OneDrive advertisements into Windows Explorer.
Microsoft is integrating O365 and OneDrive advertisements into Windows Explorer.
This content appears to be a follow-up to an earlier discussion. After researching and receiving input from users, it looks like Microsoft is distributing this message broadly, albeit without targeting specific groups. Those who have already subscribed receive the advertisement, which is quite disappointing.
It contradicts the CEO's initial vision when he began his role. He emphasized making Windows a preferred choice for users instead of something imposed. Probably the financial officers influenced his direction.
We still lack much clarity on this matter. It’s possible the ad disappears entirely after closing, or appears so rarely it becomes tolerable. Still, I understand the reasoning. If they hadn’t targeted people who actually pay for the product and excluded those who don’t use OneDrive, the approach would make more sense. As it is, though, it seems quite disappointing. In many ways, he has significantly improved the company’s direction and energy in a remarkable manner. The only criticism I have is their handling of Windows 10—especially the upgrade process—and this latest move.
I agree with the overall direction of the company regarding Linux and open source—it was a positive move. My concern is about the operating system being used as an advertising channel. If I relied on Onedrive, the focus should be entirely within that service. This isn’t acceptable for me since my machine is mine, and I don’t want to agree to use it as an ad platform. I might have done this because of the terms, but it feels unethical.
See, this upgrade isn’t really worth it either. (I’m guessing Microsoft and Apple are on the same page.) Cloud storage is different from local storage. Not at all. And especially not when you have to spend money on mobile data just to reach the cloud. My main concern about the cloud argument is that if you don’t live in a place with good mobile connectivity, it’s almost pointless. It becomes useless if you can’t get to it, and yet companies keep pushing it hard.
I confirmed my preference for the ad to be limited to OneDrive only. They must never promote cloud services over local options, and we’re fully aligned on that. If you’re already using OneDrive, you’ve accepted the benefits and drawbacks of cloud storage, making an upgrade logical.
Absolutely; if you're using free OneDrive, then upgrading ads is worth considering because I believe the EULA allows them to do so. For users not on OneDrive, serving such ads feels intrusive, particularly when Linux users can't access OneDrive across devices. I'm curious about how long it will take Microsoft to add popups in the notification tray for Candy Crush—they already do in the start menu by default, so it seems inevitable.