Microsoft Weekly: Windows 11 Start Menu Fixes, Updated CPU Requirements, and More

In the latest edition of Microsoft Weekly, we dive into several significant updates and changes concerning Windows 11. This episode covers modifications to the supported CPU list, fresh preview builds for both Windows 10 and 11, exciting game previews, optimized Start menu layouts for Windows 11 users, and much more.

Table of Contents:

Windows 10 and 11 News
Windows Insider Program Updates
Latest Updates
Recent Reviews
Gaming News

Windows 11 and 10 Updates

This segment discusses the latest happenings regarding Microsoft’s operating systems including new features, deprecated features, ongoing controversies, bugs, and fascinating discoveries. Additionally, we’ll touch on older yet still supported versions.

Microsoft has released the February 2025 Patch Tuesday updates. On February 11, users of Windows 10 can download update KB5051974, while Windows 11 users will receive KB5051987 and KB5051989 to enhance security and improve stability.

In a notable adjustment, Microsoft has altered the list of supported CPUs for Windows 11, removing some previously compatible Intel chips while introducing new AMD WeUs. Furthermore, the company has deprecated the Location History feature, which was previously utilized by Cortana and other applications for location tracking.

There are positive changes coming to the Start menu in Windows 11. New code hints that users may soon have the option to access the app list by default, streamlining navigation by eliminating the extra click on the “All”button. For those who prefer the traditional layout, a toggle enabling pinned apps to display first will be available.

If you are eager for a revamped Start menu experience in Windows 11, consider trying out a simple mod with Windhawk that provides a user-friendly layout reminiscent of Windows 10, but with modern aesthetics. This mod offers extensive customization options to suit your preferences.

Microsoft has also updated the list of known bugs for Windows 11 version 24H2. A workaround has been introduced for ASUS PC users who faced difficulties updating to this version; updating the BIOS/UEFI should now enable them to proceed. Several issues continue to be addressed, and updates will follow as 2025 progresses.

Windows Insider Program

This section provides insight into the latest releases for testing within the Windows Insider Program.

Windows 11	Windows 10
Canary Channel	–	Not Applicable
Dev Channel	26120.3281	Not Applicable
Beta Channel	26120.328122635.4945	Not Applicable
Release Preview Channel	22631.4969	19045.5552

Latest Software Updates

This section outlines significant software, firmware, and other updates aimed at enhancing features, security, and overall performance from both Microsoft and third-party providers.

Recall the misleading “How to uninstall Edge”guide from Microsoft? Following media backlash, Microsoft replaced it with a more constructive page showcasing various Edge features and providing insights for users. Kudos to Microsoft for this positive change! With that said, we hope they will reconsider embedding ads within the Chrome website.

The Dev Channel has received a new feature update for Microsoft Edge, introducing enhancements to personalization settings alongside various fixes throughout the browser.

Interestingly, Microsoft has updated Edge’s built-in Surf game with enhanced graphics, character customization, and a new game mode. The refreshed game is accessible to all users across different channels at edge://surf.

Moreover, a promising feature in the pipeline for PowerToys includes the Run launcher integration with Windows Package Manager (winget), allowing users to install packages directly from the search interface.

Additional noteworthies include:

Outlook for Android and iOS has introduced a feature to minimize email drafts.
The production of the US Army’s IVAS headset has been passed to Anduril.
New features for Clipchamp are slated for release in 2025.
PassMark released intriguing data on average CPU performance for 2025, prompting speculations about Windows developments.

Recent driver updates released this week include:

AMD 25.2.1 Preview, optimized for titles such as Avowed and Civilization VII.
Intel 32.0.101.6559 WHQL, supporting Avowed and providing fps improvements for Hellblade 2.
Nvidia 572.42 WHQL, featuring support for Avowed and enabling DLSS 4 for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.

Recent Reviews

This section provides insights into hardware and software we reviewed recently.

Pulasthi Ariyasinghe has offered a preview of South of Midnight, which is not a complete review but rather a glimpse of what gamers can anticipate upon its release on April 8, 2025.

Gaming News

Here’s a roundup of significant gaming announcements and updates.

Turn 10 Studios has unveiled Update 17 for Forza Motorsport, now available on PC and Xbox, adding numerous vehicles and enhancements to existing ones that promise to elevate the gaming experience.

Despite concerns about the Xbox Series S impacting game development due to its lower performance specs, the developers of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 suggest it has positively influenced optimizations across other console platforms, as stated by Warhorse Studios’ Global PR Manager, Tobias Stolz-Zwilling.

At Sony’s recent State of Play event, exciting announcements were made, including the release date and gameplay trailer for Borderlands 4, slated for September 23, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam.

In addition to these major releases, Sony’s upcoming remaster of Days Gone is anticipated to arrive on PlayStation 5 and PC in April. New titles such as Lies of P: Overture and Saros, a roguelike from Husemarque, were also highlighted.

Deals and Freebies

As a special offering, the Epic Games Store is currently providing F1 Manager 2024 free of charge until February 20. Be sure to check out our Weekend PC Game Deals for additional offers and savings.

In other gaming updates:

Mojang has appointed Asa Bredin as the new CEO.
S. T.A. L.K. E.R.2 patch 1.2 has rolled out, bringing over 1700 improvements across diverse areas.
Nvidia has added popular titles, including the Batman: Arkham series and Civilization VII, to its GeForce NOW service.
Valve has disclosed plans for upcoming seasonal sales, reflecting some modifications for the Autumn event.

Each week, we cover an array of hardware and software deals. Below are some exciting discounts still available! You might just find what you’re looking for.

R-N1000A Network Receiver with Phono, HDMI, and Built-in DAC, Silver – $999.95 | 44% off
Samsung 14-inch Galaxy Book4 Pro – $699.99 | 48% off
WD 16TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive – $249 | 19% off
Samsung 16-inch Galaxy Book4 Pro – $1, 099.99 | 37% off
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds – $99.99 | 22% off
Acer CB272U 27″WQHD 2560 x 1440 Home Office Monitor – $149.99 | 40% off
Acer Predator XB273U 27″WQHD 2560 x 1440 Gaming Monitor – $189.99 | 29% off
Xbox Wireless Controller Pulse Cipher Special Edition – $64 | 15% off