
Welcome to this week’s Microsoft news roundup, where we highlight the most pressing stories in the tech landscape. From quirky bugs within Windows and harrowing experiences with OneDrive to new preview builds for Windows 11 and significant updates from AMD, this recap captures it all.
Quick Navigation:
- Windows 10 and 11 Update
- Insights from the Windows Insider Program
- Latest Updates and Fixes
- Product Reviews
- Gaming Developments
Windows 11 and Windows 10 Highlights
In this section, we delve into the latest happenings surrounding Microsoft’s flagship operating systems, covering everything from new functionalities to bugs and user experiences. Notably, a recent out-of-band update aimed at solving boot issues on specific Surface devices has been rolled out, showcasing Microsoft’s ongoing support.
Additionally, the company made strides with Windows 365 by introducing support for Virtualization-based Security (VBS) and Hardware-based Code Integrity (HVCI) by default, along with updating its application provisioning process. A strategic move to streamline Windows Update has also seen the removal of certain legacy drivers.

However, not all developments are positive. The latest Patch Tuesday updates have resulted in DHCP Server malfunctions across all Windows Server editions, while some PC users report issues with Windows Hello cameras, especially in low-light conditions due to security adjustments made after the Patch Tuesday updates in April 2025.
In other news, there are persistent concerns regarding Western Digital’s solid-state drives, which could hinder the installation of Windows 11 version 24H2 released in October 2024. Also, Microsoft’s Family Safety feature inexplicably blocks Chrome access for some users.
Insightful commentary from Usama Jawad reflects on the lack of compelling reasons to transition to Windows 11 for users still on Windows 10. He expresses indifference towards the evolution of the Start menu, highlighting its minimal impact on his user experience.

Windows Insider Program Updates
Here’s a recap of the latest releases for Windows Insiders:
Builds | |||
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Canary Channel |
Build 27881 This week’s Canary build includes enhancements to context menus, additional accessibility features, and adjustments to the Settings app. |
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Dev Channel |
No updates this week for the Dev Channel |
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Beta Channel |
No changes for the Beta Channel this week |
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Release Preview Channel |
Build 26100.4482 (KB5060829) This build focuses on enhancing File Explorer and search capabilities while addressing various bugs. |
Among the hidden features in the latest preview builds is an innovative adaptive battery saver, which optimizes battery use based on user activity—though its full functionality remains a work in progress. Additionally, the notification center now features a customizable clock, and Microsoft continues integrating Control Panel features into the Settings app, including a new customization option for display indicators.

The Snipping Tool app also receives significant updates, allowing users to save screen recordings as GIFs, a welcomed addition for many.
Available Updates
This segment highlights noteworthy software and firmware updates from both Microsoft and other partners. These updates encompass new features, security enhancements, and various fixes.
Notably, there are plans for a comprehensive redesign of the PowerToys Dashboard, offering a restructured interface that simplifies access to key functionalities.

On a less optimistic note, OneDrive is experiencing widespread difficulties with file retrieval on multiple platforms. Microsoft is aware of the problem, which has left many users disheartened, particularly following reports of accounts being locked without warning. Furthermore, Outlook users are encountering challenges opening emails, and Microsoft 365 is in the process of phasing out outdated access protocols for file management.
Conversely, Excel’s Copilot feature has seen a substantial update, enhancing its contextual awareness, thereby improving its utility in data queries.
This week also witnessed key browser updates, including a new Firefox feature for tab management available in the Nightly channel. Microsoft Edge has launched an update addressing two critical security vulnerabilities linked to Chromium.
Don’t miss the latest offerings in the Microsoft 365 Roadmap, showcasing exciting new additions to their platform.
Other noteworthy updates this week include:
- Heightened focus on Microsoft 365 security following a significant Washington Post hack.
- Expansion of Microsoft’s European sovereign cloud solutions featuring enhanced data and key controls.
- New recommendations for Microsoft Defender XDR using TITAN-powered Security Copilot.
- Reports of impending layoffs within Microsoft.
- A watchdog finding Microsoft culpable in confusion surrounding its Copilot advertising.
This week also brought the release of several noteworthy drivers and firmware updates:
- AMD issued a new chipset driver for Ryzen processors, version 7.06.02.123, which follows a security update for TPM-Pluton.
- Nvidia’s release of version 576.80 WHQL includes fixes for the RTX 5090 FE alongside new game support and an extensive list of other corrections.
- A simple tweak can boost performance for select AMD Ryzen processors.
- Major firmware updates rolled out for Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7, featuring various improvements.
Product Reviews
Here are the highlights from this week’s reviews:
Steven Parker evaluated the TerraMaster D4 SSD, a compact Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) unit capable of holding up to 32TB and connectable via USB4. Praised for its minimal size, appealing design, and RAID support in TOS 6, this device is impressive and offers excellent value.

Gaming News and Updates
This week marks significant progress in the gaming sector with announcements from AMD and Microsoft. The two companies have forged a multi-year partnership ensuring AMD will provide chips for future Xbox consoles and hardware, as confirmed by Sarah Bond in a recent video.

Turn 10 Studios unveiled Update 21 for Forza Motorsport, introducing new IndyCar content, an enhanced Career mode, and added reward cars—all now live on Xbox and PC via Microsoft Store and Steam.

The long-awaited graphics upgrade for Minecraft is finally here, featuring improved lighting, volumetric fog, and enhanced shadows. Mojang has also released the new Chase the Skies content drop, which adds new gameplay elements and environmental effects.

Additionally, Xbox Game Pass welcomed a host of new games, including FBC: Firebreak, Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time, and Call of Duty: WWII, among others. As is customary, some titles will be leaving the subscription service.

Valve also began rolling out an extensive update for the Steam overlay, enhancing tracking capabilities for CPU, VRAM, and temperatures—important metrics for gamers.
Additional Gaming Developments:
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Take-Two confirmed that the base price for Borderlands 4 will not reach $80.
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The Coalition has broadened the beta phase for Gears of War: Reloaded to address initial feedback.
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Ara: History Untold received a significant update focusing on AI, map generation, and combat improvements.
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Star Citizen’s Alpha 4.2 update brings new dynamic weather features.

For more insights, explore previous editions of the Microsoft Weekly series.
Background image by steve_a_johnson on Pixabay.
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