Stop Windows 10 Feedback Requests - A Simple Guide
Managing Windows 10 Feedback Notifications
Windows 10 gathers data regarding how you utilize your computer. While automatic data collection occurs, the operating system may also periodically request your direct feedback.
The purpose of this data collection is to enhance Windows 10's functionality and user experience. The Windows Feedback application is now pre-installed on all Windows 10 systems, following the release of the "November Update."
Understanding the Windows Feedback App
Prior to the November Update, the Windows Feedback application was exclusively included in Insider builds of Windows 10. Now, it’s a standard component for all users.
This application allows Microsoft to solicit opinions and reports directly from its user base. It’s a key component in their ongoing development process.
Disabling Feedback Notifications
If you prefer not to receive these prompts, you can disable the Windows Feedback notifications. This will prevent the system from periodically asking for your input.
Here's how to manage these notifications:
- Navigate to the Settings app.
- Select "System."
- Choose "Notifications & actions."
- Scroll down and locate "Windows Feedback."
- Toggle the switch to "Off" to disable notifications.
By adjusting these settings, you can control the frequency of feedback requests from Windows 10. This allows for a more focused computing experience.
Disabling notifications doesn't prevent the operating system from collecting diagnostic data, but it does stop the direct requests for feedback.
Adjusting Feedback Requests in Windows 10
The frequency with which Windows 10 prompts users for feedback can be modified through the Settings application. Accessing this application is easily done by clicking or tapping the Start button, followed by selecting "Settings".
Within the Settings app, locate and click or tap the "Privacy" icon.
In the sidebar, choose "Feedback & diagnostics". Should this option not be immediately visible, scrolling down the sidebar will reveal it.
The setting that governs how often Windows 10 requests your input is labeled "Windows should ask for my feedback," found under "Feedback frequency". Its default configuration is "Automatically (Recommended)".
Available Feedback Frequency Options
- Always
- Once a day
- Once a week
- Never
Selecting "Never" will prevent Windows 10 from requesting feedback in the future.
By choosing this option, you effectively disable these prompts. Feedback & diagnostics settings allow for personalized control over your Windows 10 experience.
Suppressing Windows Feedback Notifications
Typically, this adjustment isn't required if you've previously configured Windows 10 to refrain from requesting your feedback. However, should these notifications persist, steps can be taken to prevent their display.
Access the Settings application either through the Start menu or the Start screen, then choose the "System" icon.
Within the sidebar, select "Notifications & actions".
Navigate to the bottom of the Notifications & actions panel. The "Windows Feedback" application will be listed under "Show notifications from these apps" if it has previously presented notifications to you.
Further Reading: A Guide to Disabling the “Get Office” Notifications in Windows 10
Deactivate notifications for the Windows Feedback app by setting the toggle to "Off"; this will eliminate their appearance as pop-ups or within the action center.
This same procedure can be applied to silence notifications from other applications that generate frequent alerts, such as the recurring "Get Office" prompts encouraging Office 365 subscription and Microsoft Office downloads.
Submitting Feedback Through the Windows Feedback App
The option to share your thoughts remains available whenever you desire. Accessing the Windows Feedback app is straightforward; simply open your Start menu, navigate to "All Apps," and select "Windows Feedback." Alternatively, utilize the search function within your Start menu or Start screen to locate and launch the application.
Logging in with a Microsoft account unlocks additional functionality. This allows you to explore existing problem reports and feature suggestions, and contribute by upvoting those that align with your own experiences.
Furthermore, you have the capability to submit entirely new feedback, which will then be available for other users to review and support.
The Importance of User Feedback
The collective data gathered from these submissions assists Microsoft in gauging user sentiment regarding Windows 10 and its diverse features. If you do not object to these feedback prompts, consider leaving them active and sharing your perspectives with Microsoft.
Historically, Microsoft has leveraged user data to inform significant design decisions. For example, the removal of the Start menu and Start button in Windows 8 was based on usage statistics indicating limited user engagement with these elements.
It is plausible that the vocal minority of "power users" who heavily relied on the Start menu also actively prevented Windows from transmitting usage data, skewing the overall results.
- Understanding Usage Data: Microsoft relies on aggregated feedback to improve Windows.
- Active Participation: Submitting feedback directly influences future development.
- Historical Precedent: Past changes, like the Windows 8 Start menu, were data-driven.
Therefore, providing consistent and honest feedback is crucial for shaping the future of the Windows operating system.
