Solitaire is a popular card game included with Windows 10. However, some users experience annoying ads and pop-ups while playing, which can disrupt the experience.
These ads usually come from the Microsoft Solitaire Collection app, which is free but supported by advertisements. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce or remove these ads.
This guide will walk you through simple and detailed steps to fix Solitaire ads on your Windows 10 PC. No advanced technical skills are needed.
By following these instructions, you can enjoy a cleaner, ad-free Solitaire game.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure your Windows 10 system is updated to the latest version for better app management.
- Check if you are signed in with a Microsoft account, as some features depend on it.
- Understand that the free version of Microsoft Solitaire Collection includes ads; removing ads entirely may require a purchase.
- Back up important files just in case you need to reinstall or reset apps.
Step 1: Understand Why Ads Appear in Solitaire
The Microsoft Solitaire Collection is a free app that supports itself through advertisements. These ads appear as pop-ups or banners during gameplay.
Removing ads completely usually requires purchasing the premium version, but you can minimize interruptions by adjusting settings or using alternative methods.
Step 2: Turn Off Notifications for Microsoft Solitaire Collection
Sometimes, ads come as notifications rather than in-app banners. To stop these notifications:
- Click the Start button and open Settings (gear icon).
- Go to System and then select Notifications & actions.
- Scroll down to find Microsoft Solitaire Collection in the list.
- Toggle off notifications for this app.
This will prevent Solitaire from sending you ad notifications outside of the app.
Step 3: Purchase the Ad-Free Version of Microsoft Solitaire Collection
If you want to completely remove ads, you need the premium version:
- Open the Microsoft Solitaire Collection app.
- Click on the Settings gear icon within the app.
- Look for an option like “Remove Ads” or “Go Ad-Free”.
- Follow the prompts to purchase the ad-free subscription.
This official method ensures you support the developers and enjoy uninterrupted gameplay.
Step 4: Use Windows Focus Assist to Limit Interruptions
Windows 10 has a feature called Focus Assist that limits notifications and pop-ups:
- Open Settings and go to System > Focus Assist.
- Select Alarms only or Priority only.
- Customize the priority list to exclude Solitaire notifications.
This method won’t remove ads inside the app but can reduce pop-up interruptions while playing.
Step 5: Reset or Reinstall Microsoft Solitaire Collection
If ads or pop-ups are unusually frequent or buggy, resetting the app might help:
- Open Settings, go to Apps > Apps & features.
- Find Microsoft Solitaire Collection in the list and click it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Click Reset. This clears app data and can fix glitches.
- If resetting doesn’t help, uninstall the app and reinstall it from the Microsoft Store.
Alternative Method: Use a Different Solitaire Game
If ads remain a problem, consider using a different Solitaire game without ads. Many free or paid third-party Solitaire apps are available in the Microsoft Store or online.
Choosing an alternative can provide a similar experience without annoying pop-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do I see ads in Solitaire on Windows 10?
The Microsoft Solitaire Collection is free and supported by ads. The ads help fund the development and maintenance of the app.
Can I remove ads from Solitaire for free?
No, removing ads completely requires purchasing the premium version. However, you can minimize notifications and pop-ups through settings.
Will resetting the Solitaire app remove ads?
No, resetting can fix glitches but does not remove the ads themselves.
Are there any official ad-free versions of Solitaire?
Yes, Microsoft offers a premium subscription to remove ads from Solitaire.
Can third-party Solitaire apps be safer?
Yes, many third-party apps offer ad-free versions, but always download from trusted sources to avoid security risks.
When Nothing Works: Final Options
If ads still disrupt your Solitaire experience after trying the above steps, consider the following:
- Contact Microsoft Support for app-related issues: https://support.microsoft.com
- Check for Windows updates, as some updates improve app behavior.
- Use a different user account on your PC to see if ads behave differently.
- Consider using web-based Solitaire games that don’t require app installation.
Conclusion
Ads in Microsoft Solitaire Collection on Windows 10 can be frustrating, but there are simple ways to reduce or remove them. Understanding that ads support the free app is important.
Turning off notifications, using Focus Assist, resetting the app, or purchasing the premium version are effective methods. Alternatively, you can explore other Solitaire games without ads.
Following these steps will help you enjoy a smoother, less distracting Solitaire experience on your Windows 10 computer.