This week, Microsoft released a new Windows 10 Preview update for the Insider channel, which does not contain any interesting news, except for the new banners introduced in the general settings, so change the use of local accounts in Windows in favor of custom Microsoft accounts.

«This update starts implementing notifications related to Microsoft accounts in Settings > Start. A Microsoft account connects Windows to your Microsoft applications. The account also backs up all your data and helps you manage your subscription. You can also add additional security measures to prevent your account from being locked out. This feature shows notifications in Start and Settings »says Microsoft.

This story will surely sound familiar to you. Microsoft launched a crackdown years ago against the use of local accounts in Windows, including crude “dark patterns” that disrespect its customers’ choices. The company simply wanted and wants use Microsoft ID accounts for business reasons: so you end up hiring your own services and applications and not those of competitors.

Local accounts in Windows or Microsoft accounts?

Windows 10 and Windows 11 can work with a user-created local account or a Microsoft ID account. Depending on whether you choose one or the other, some operating system features operate and manage them differently. And like everything each has its advantages.

If you already use Microsoft services (OneDrive, Office and others) this will be good for you. Your own online account with a company ID will offer you advantages such as better connection with Microsoft applications and cloud services, better synchronization with other devices or access to additional functions.

If you don’t use Microsoft services, yes much better to use local accounts which have the advantage of not being tied to an online identity that can be hacked. Not to mention its greater level of privacy, one of the most controversial points of the latest Windows, whose telemetry and data collection is enormous.

You already know our opinion. Microsoft needs to communicate the benefits of each type of account and put them in the same place in a transparent way so that the user can choose the one they prefer. Without the dark patterns, pressure or annoying ads that Windows 10 and 11 are still full of. Not to mention complying with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) to stimulate competition, which Microsoft’s accounts do not support.