Microsoft recently released an update for Windows 11 Insiders in the Canary Channel, and it has sparked some debate. The update, bringing Windows 11 Build 26236 to Insiders, introduces a new feature in the Start menu: an account manager. This account manager displays a user’s Microsoft subscription status, including subscriptions to Microsoft 365 and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
The addition of the account manager has left many users scratching their heads. The primary question being asked is, who exactly requested this feature? Are there really people out there who are unsure of their Microsoft 365 or Xbox Game Pass subscription status and need a quick way to check directly in the Start menu? Even if there are some users who might find this feature helpful, the bigger question is whether the Start menu is the most suitable location for such information.
Critics are viewing this addition as another attempt by Microsoft to push users towards their paid services. In recent times, Microsoft has been adding or testing advertisements in various areas of Windows 11. This includes prompts to sign up for Game Pass within the Settings app, notifications to subscribe to OneDrive storage, and even recommended apps displayed directly in the Start menu. The company also has other means of monetizing Windows, such as promoting MSN content through the Widgets Panel and the lock screen.
If testing of the account manager goes smoothly, users can expect to see an indicator for their Microsoft subscriptions right within the Windows 11 Start menu. Hopefully, for those who don’t appreciate a constant reminder to sign up for Game Pass every time they open the Start menu, there will be an option to disable this feature.
Taking a closer look at the update itself, we see that Windows 11 Build 26236 brings a mix of additions and improvements.
General improvements: This update includes a collection of minor improvements and bug fixes that aim to enhance the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs.
Start menu changes: This update marks the beginning of the rollout for the new account manager within the Start menu. Designed for users signed in with a Microsoft account, this new feature offers a quick glimpse at their account benefits and provides easy access to account management settings.
Bug fixes: The update also addresses a couple of bugs. One fix resolves an issue that caused the taskbar to disappear for a small number of Insiders in recent builds. Another fix tackles an audio issue that prevented the preferred audio volume settings for Microsoft Edge from being retained after restarting the app.
In conclusion, Windows 11 Build 26236 presents a mixed bag of features. While the new account manager is a controversial addition, the general improvements and bug fixes are welcome changes. Whether or not Microsoft will allow users to disable the account manager remains to be seen.
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