1. Intrusive ads and unwanted content in Windows
Many commenters complain that Windows now shows full‑screen wallpaper ads, start‑menu news stories, OneDrive prompts, and other promotional material that feels like malware.
- “I’d be more surprised if this was the first time Microsoft did this.” – bejd
- “I just wanted to launch Notepad, dog.” – coldpie (referring to the forced OneDrive/setup flow)
- “Wallpapers are probably randomly selected… one was showing the Harry Potter ad and the two others a nice view of Bamberg.” – N19PEDL2
- “The start menu shows news stories?! … I’ve never used Windows for more than 30 seconds since XP.” – wat10000
- “Ads on install, ads in the start menu, ads in the toolbar, ads in wallpaper, ads in notifications, ads on the lockscreen, ads in widgets, ads in file explorer…” – micromacrofoot
2. Microsoft’s profit‑driven “enshittification” and loss of user goodwill
A recurring sentiment is that Microsoft is prioritizing revenue over user experience, deliberately degrading Windows to push ads and services.
- “Microsoft seems determined to destroy every bit of remaining customer goodwill.” – ungreased0675
- “Microsoft has zero pride in their operating system and no respect for their users.” – micromacrofoot
- “If I showed up at your place and painted some tactful ads on the walls, would you have an issue with it? … Ads intruding deeper and deeper into your 'personal' space are an issue even if they're executed well.” – matherial
- “This is absolutely, positively, 100% malware. Just because it comes with your OS doesn't mean it's not.” – ryandrake
- “Microsoft is making money at our expense.” – dfxm12
3. Users turning to Linux or other alternatives
Many commenters state they have already switched—or are seriously considering switching—to Linux (or macOS) to escape the ads and unwanted behavior.
- “I recently wiped Windows off my wife's machine after the last straw broke… Bazzite was a no‑brain replacement.” – tapoxi
- “That OneDrive thing was what convinced me to finally get rid of Windows.” – laughing_man
- “I can’t imagine using Windows these days… I have no reason to use it.” – cautiouscat
- “You can choose Linux. Works super well these days. But this is a YOU problem if you keep choosing MS Windows and their ongoing abuse.” – nekusar
- “The new macs look nice.” – jareklupinski (indicating a shift away from Windows)
These three themes—ubiquitous intrusive ads, perceived corporate disregard for users, and the migration to alternatives—dominate the discussion.