The only 'ads' I've seen from Apple have been the aforementioned iCloud invitation in Settings, there is also a prompt to sign up for iCloud when first setting

The only 'ads' I've seen from Apple have been the aforementioned iCloud invitation in Settings, there is also a prompt to sign up for iCloud when first setting up the system. That's an element of user choice - 'use our service, or don't, we won't ask twice'. Unlike MS - you have to link everything with an ID when first setting up W11, no choice unless you go to extreme workarounds. Constant nagging and manipulation thereafter. With that said, what platform are you using that has no ads at all? Presumably Linux on the desktop, which I can almost use. But unfortunately I can't use it on mobile, I have too many use cases in the personal and business world that require a 'normie' grade phone.