Bing Wallpaper app opens Harry Potter's chamber of ads
No defense against the dark arts Microsoft is practicing on your wallpaper
Microsoft has introduced ads into its Bing Wallpaper app, bringing a Harry Potter-themed promotion to the Windows desktop. Users of the app expressed their dissatisfaction on platforms like Reddit and Microsoft's Learn site, questioning why a minimalist vector image of Hogwarts castle, along with promotional text and information about the full film collection, replaced their regular desktop wallpapers.
Microsoft Learn poster Reed Miller specifically inquired about potential future advertisements and how to prevent them. Reddit users similarly voiced their displeasure, comparing the change to "shit" and expressing annoyance at the app's transformation into an ad-delivering service. While some users mentioned Rowling's recent anti-transgender views, the primary frustration was centered on the app's shift from providing beautiful images to promoting movies.
Microsoft has a history of privacy controversies, including snooping on browser cookies, and inserting ads into Windows, such as promotions in the Windows 11 Start menu. The company did not immediately respond to requests for further information on the ad campaign. For now, those concerned can consider uninstalling the Bing Wallpaper app to avoid the unwanted advertisements.
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