It looks like Microsoft is getting ready to require more people to have a Microsoft account to install the latest version of its operating system, the upcoming Windows 11 22H2 release.
Previously, the company made these changes for Windows 11 Home users, removing the option to use a local account when installing that version of the OS. Now, this measure is not just limited to that edition, as Redmond now requires users to link accounts even on Windows 11 Pro.
That leaves just Windows 11 Enterprise free from this restraint.
Starting with the 22H2 feature update for the operating system, you will need to connect your Microsoft account during installation. Microsoft will then automatically configure OneDrive for the device and begin syncing data across your devices.
This includes transferring settings and preferences automatically to help you manage multiple PCs easily.
Users first noted this change in the recently released build 22616, where Windows 11 Pro installations force the setup of a Microsoft account. Users must also have an active internet connection during the installation process.
Please note that this is only the case if you opt to set up the device for personal use. Choosing the work or school option prompts you to use your organization’s domain instead.
While it is possible to bypass the account requirement at the moment by entering a non-existent Microsoft account email and password, this results in an error message, where you can click on the Next button to create a local account.
Hardly the most convenient of ways for users, but a workaround nevertheless.
Sure, linking a Microsoft account to Windows 11 has its own benefits. But not everyone wants the company to have their information in this manner. Not when previous variants of the OS worked fine when setting things up in an isolated fashion.
Then again, this is an industrywide trend, and Microsoft is not alone in this.
Google has always forced Google accounts on Android phones that come with Play services. While the practice is not mandatory on Apple devices, and it is possible to set up an iPhone without creating an Apple ID, certain apps and services may not work properly when doing so.
But most Windows users prefer this choice, and will not take this change lightly.
What do you think?
