Microsoft Weekly Update: Reactions to Copilot Ads and Faster File Explorer

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This Week in Microsoft: Key Highlights

Welcome to this week’s recap of noteworthy events from the world of Microsoft. From user feedback on advertisements to updates regarding File Explorer and the introduction of new preview builds, we’ve got a range of topics to cover.

Windows 10 and 11 Developments

This section covers the latest enhancements, bugs, and notable changes in both Windows 10 and 11, including details from Microsoft’s annual Ignite conference. During the event, multiple announcements were made, particularly aimed at developers and enterprises, with a few consumer-focused updates interspersed. A significant highlight was the integration of AI as a pivotal element in Windows 11, aligning with Microsoft’s vision for next-generation usability.

Moreover, exciting recovery features were unveiled this week, enabling users to restore their systems effectively with minimal disruption. Notably, Windows 11 users can expect the long-awaited Agenda View in the Calendar Flyout, which allows quick previews of upcoming events directly from the system tray.

Agenda View in Windows 11's Calendar Flyout

On a less favorable note, Microsoft faced criticism after releasing an ill-received ad for its Copilot feature which fell short of user expectations, prompting the company to remove the video due to backlash.

In terms of routine updates, both Windows 10 and 11 recently received essential recovery updates. Windows 10 saw improvements addressing specific error codes preventing updates, while Windows 11’s latest version (23H2) brought forth a collection of non-security updates aimed at fixing known issues. As a common theme in these weekly recaps, Microsoft acknowledged that several core components of Windows 11 are experiencing performance issues under certain circumstances.

Windows Insider Program Updates

In the realm of Windows Insiders, the latest releases include:

Builds Overview
Canary Channel	Build 28000.1199 This build, part of the 26H1 release for Windows 11, features several minor fixes.
Dev Channel	Builds 26220.7262 and 26220.7271 The former introduces experimental agent settings, along with significant enhancements to Narrator and Click to Do features. Meanwhile, the latter provides all Windows 11 PCs access to the Xbox Full-screen Experience and introduces performance tweaks for File Explorer.
Beta Channel
Release Preview Channel	Builds 26100.7296 and 26200.7296 These builds bring improvements to Copilot-enabled PCs, updates to File Explorer, and bug fixes.

In addition to these builds, Microsoft unveiled a revamped Windows Insider website, offering a more modern interface and improved explanations for each channel, though the included AI struggled with basic inquiries about program leadership and historical context.

Furthermore, the Notepad application received an update that includes new table support and device-based AI processing features.

Latest Updates from Microsoft

This section discusses various updates and enhancements from Microsoft and affiliated third-party sources that enhance security, introduce new features, and improve overall functionality.

PowerToys, a set of valuable utilities for Windows users, reached version 0.96 this week, featuring numerous enhancements to existing tools like Advanced Paste and Light Switch, despite no new utilities being introduced at this time.

In an interesting move, Microsoft is contemplating developing a new utility designed to enhance video call appearances by incorporating a virtual ring light; currently available as a standalone app, it may soon be integrated into PowerToys.

Additionally, Microsoft Office apps are set to upgrade their alt text generation capabilities using advanced AI models, moving away from the previous Azure Vision framework.

Other relevant updates and developments include:

Enhancements to AI agents for more reliable operation.
Expansion of Anthropic’s Claude AI models across Azure, backed by a $5 billion investment.
Remarkable growth in SQL Server adoption on Linux, alongside the discontinuation of support for the SUSE distribution.
Project Opal in Microsoft 365 aims to streamline routine tasks.
Preparation to extend Copilot functionality to the Chrome browser.
Warnings for IT admins that Windows Server 2025 will be the last version supporting WINS.

Additionally, the following driver and firmware updates were released recently:

Qualcomm’s launch of the Snapdragon Control Panel to enhance gaming on X Elite PCs.
Nvidia’s hotfix driver addressing issues stemming from the latest Windows 11 updates.

Recent Reviews

This week’s reviews include notable takes on hardware and software:

Aryeh Goretsky provided insights on the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 15 Gen 1 Aura Edition, discussing its performance after six months of ownership.

Additionally, we reviewed the budget-friendly NUU B40 5G Android phone, highlighting its design, display quality, and overall value, especially given its discounted price point of $199.99.

Gaming News and Developments

In gaming, the Xbox Design Lab has expanded its reach, allowing users from over two dozen new countries to create customized game controllers thanks to Microsoft’s partnership with ESW.

The Game Pass service continues to enhance its offerings, with new titles like Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault and Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo joining the lineup.

In other gaming news, the Epic Games Store has added a gifting feature, allowing users to purchase games for friends and family. Additionally, “Zoeti”, a turn-based roguelike, is currently available for free, as is “Warhammer: Vermintide 2″on Steam, part of the latest promotions covered in our weekend PC game deals.

Furthermore, Nvidia’s GeForce NOW cloud streaming service has completed its upgrade to RTX 5080 rigs, enhancing game performance and allowing for up to 5K resolution at 120FPS.

Other key gaming announcements include:

Colossal Order has exited the Cities: Skylines franchise, with new development duties being assumed by another studio.
Mafia: The Old Country has introduced a free ride mode and other exciting features.

As part of our regular coverage, we present ongoing discounts and deals worthy of your attention. Some notable offers currently available include: