Microsoft Windows 11 Ad Unintentionally Promotes Google Chrome, Later Updated After Public Attention

Microsoft’s Windows 11 Ad Accidentally Promotes Google Chrome

On December 23, 2025, Microsoft released a commercial on YouTube titled “Windows 11 is the Home of Gaming.” However, viewers quickly noticed an unexpected detail: the Chrome icon was prominently displayed on the taskbar. Following a report from Windows Latest, Microsoft discreetly revised the ad, substituting Chrome with its own browser, Edge.

Featuring Google Chrome in a Windows 11 advertisement seems somewhat contradictory, given Microsoft’s persistent attempts to steer users towards Edge and Bing. For instance, a search for “Chrome”or “Google”on Bing.com will prompt visitors to consider using Microsoft Edge instead. Similarly, if a user navigates to the Chrome download page through Edge, they are subtly encouraged to continue using Edge.

It is clear that Microsoft aims to limit the adoption of Chrome among its user base, yet the initial advertisement included the competing browser, raising eyebrows. Ultimately, this inclusion appears to have been unintentional, prompting Microsoft to alter the ad and replace Chrome with icons representing other applications like PowerPoint.

The incident caught significant attention online after Windows Latest reported on January 5, leading to light-hearted commentary among users who seemingly found humor in the occurrence that even Microsoft could not evade Chrome.

If you are curious about the original advertisement, a preserved version is available in my archive for viewing:

This original version prominently displayed Chrome alongside other applications, including Microsoft Edge. If you are unable to spot Chrome in the ad, here is a zoomed-in screenshot for reference:

Should you visit YouTube to view the updated ad, you will observe that Microsoft has discreetly removed Chrome from the taskbar, eliminating all traces of its previous inclusion.

The revised ad now features a range of applications, including Edge, Xbox, Microsoft 365 Copilot, and Office software like PowerPoint, with no mention of Chrome. This adjustment aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategic approach and transparency regarding their platform.

While the core message of the advertisement, “Windows 11: The Home of Gaming, ” remains unchanged, the edited version conspicuously lacks Chrome in the taskbar, suggesting there may have been an oversight in the original production process. Microsoft has yet to respond to this incident, and given the circumstances, a public acknowledgment seems unlikely.

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