When you install Windows 11 and open the Start Menu for the first time, you will immediately notice icons for applications you never asked for, such as TikTok, Instagram, WhatsApp, or various mobile-style games like Candy Crush. Even if you right-click and uninstall them, you might find new “suggested” apps magically appearing after major Windows updates.
Microsoft pushes these third-party applications as part of its consumer experience strategy. However, if you are using your PC for professional work or simply hate having your storage cluttered with unwanted bloatware, you can stop Windows 11 from automatically downloading and installing these sponsored applications.
How to Stop Automatic Suggested App Installations
You can disable the consumer experience features through the Windows 11 Settings app, though you will still need to manually uninstall any apps that have already been downloaded.
- Click the Start button and select the Settings gear icon (or press Windows Key + I).
- In the left-hand navigation pane, click on Personalisation.
- Scroll down the main window and click on Start.
- Look for the toggle switch labelled Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more.
- Click the toggle switch to turn it Off.
- (Optional but recommended): Go back to the main Settings menu, click on System, then Notifications. Scroll to the very bottom and click on Additional settings. Uncheck the boxes that allow Windows to offer suggestions on how to set up your device and get tips/tricks.
To clean up the existing mess, simply open your Start Menu, right-click on any unwanted app (like TikTok or WhatsApp), and select Uninstall. With the recommendation settings disabled, Microsoft will no longer quietly push these sponsored applications onto your Start Menu during background updates.