Outlook just asked me if I want to upgrade to bigger ads (twitter.com)

Article summary

Outlook asked a user if they wanted to upgrade to bigger ads, which the user found confusing. The prompt seemed unusual as it presented a choice between two ad options, with one being potentially more intrusive. The user questioned the intent behind the prompt, sparking a discussion about email clients and advertising. The conversation also touched on the EU's ruling on ads in email inboxes.

Main themes

• email clients
• advertising strategies
• dark patterns
• user experience
• EU ruling on ads
• free services vs paid services
• ad format preferences

What commenters say

• Some argue that the prompt is a dark pattern, manipulating users into choosing the more profitable option for the company.
• Others see it as a straightforward choice between two ad options, with no inherent manipulation.
• The presence of ads in email clients is a necessary trade-off for free services, but the presentation and intrusiveness of these ads can be improved.
• Inline ads may be more profitable for companies, but some users prefer them over larger, more obtrusive ads.
• The EU's ruling on ads in email inboxes has led to companies reevaluating their advertising strategies.
• Users should have the option to choose between different ad formats or pay for an ad-free experience.
• The choice between ad options is not a real choice if one option is significantly more intrusive or detrimental to the user experience.
• The design of the prompt can influence users' perceptions of the ad options and the company's intentions.