Windows Spotlight can show rotating lock screen photos along with tips, facts, app suggestions, and promotional text. If you want a cleaner lock screen, switch away from Spotlight or turn off the extra suggestions.
This applies to Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs using Windows Spotlight on the lock screen.
Does This Affect You?
If the lock screen changes photos and displays tips or promotional messages, Windows Spotlight is likely active. The quickest fix is choosing Picture or Slideshow instead.
Switch Away from Windows Spotlight
- Right-click the desktop and choose Personalize, or open Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
- Open the Personalize your lock screen dropdown.
- Choose Picture for one image or Slideshow for your own rotating folder.
- Pick the photo or folder you want to use.
Keep Spotlight but Turn Off Suggestions
- Open Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
- Keep Windows Spotlight selected.
- Turn off Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen.
- If the option does not apply, toggle Spotlight off and back on, then check the setting again.
Turn Off Related Windows Suggestions
- Open Settings > Personalization > Start and disable app promotions or recommendations if shown.
- Open Taskbar settings and turn off recommendation options listed for your Windows version.
- Open Settings > Privacy & security > General and disable suggested content in Settings.
Extra Notes
Updates Can Reset It
Major Windows feature updates may restore Spotlight or suggestion defaults. If lock screen text returns after an update, repeat the same toggles.
Group Policy Block
On Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions, administrators can disable Windows Spotlight under Cloud Content policies so users cannot turn it back on from Settings.
Why People Call Them Ads
Many lock screen messages promote Microsoft features rather than paid third-party ads, but they still feel like unwanted promotional content when you want a plain lock screen.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Personalize your lock screen
- Microsoft Support: Turn off Windows Spotlight
- Microsoft Support: Manage Windows suggestions and tips