Microsoft Injects Ads into Bing Wallpaper App, Sparking Backlash
Microsoft's Bing Wallpaper app has been displaying ads in users' desktops, sparking backlash among users. The optional app typically shows travel scenes and animal images as daily wallpapers on Windows PC desktops. However, some users recently reported finding an ad for the Harry Potter series after selecting a castle-themed image titled 'Harry Potter Fantastic Beasts 11-Film Collection.'
The promotion is tied to the new Harry Potter series set to premiere in December on HBO Max. Users took to forums and Reddit to express their discontent with Microsoft's decision to inject ads into its products. One user wrote, 'I have been using Bing Wallpaper happily for years. Today, for the first time, I noticed a hecking ad in place of my wallpaper.' Another user criticized the company, pointing out that author JK Rowling has been involved in controversy surrounding her views on transgender people.
Microsoft has not responded to requests for comment, but this move is seen as counterintuitive given the company's efforts to declutter Windows 11. The incident raises concerns about Microsoft's approach to injecting ads into its products and whether users will have control over what appears on their desktops.