While some promoted apps are pre-installed, they can be cleared away -- although the latest version of Windows does ensure they appear in your apps list, lock screen, as well as your Start menu.

If it's any consolation, the Anniversary Update will more than likely include some desirable improvements (like collaborative tool Windows Ink) alongside reiterating that there's plenty of apps to buy. Lest we forget, free upgrades to Windows 10 will stop in a few months' time. You'll then have to cough up $119 to stay up to date.