Microsoft Weekly: Windows 11 Surpasses Windows 10 in Popularity Amid Major Layoffs

Welcome to this week’s news roundup! Significant developments have emerged, including Windows 11 surpassing Windows 10 in popularity, major layoffs at Microsoft alongside the closure of several studios, an array of communications misfires from company executives, a solitary preview build for Windows 11, and much more.

Quick Links:

Insights on Windows 10 and 11
Updates from the Windows Insider Program
Software and Feature Updates
Latest Reviews
Gaming Highlights

Windows 11 Gains Ground

This section delves into the latest happenings surrounding Microsoft’s operating systems, specifically Windows 11 and its predecessor, Windows 10. We cover newly introduced features, contentious topics, system bugs, and notable discoveries. Additionally, we touch on previous versions of the operating system.

An important milestone has been reached this month: Windows 11 has officially outpaced Windows 10 in global popularity, according to StatCounter. Notably, as of June 2025, Windows 11 captured a commendable 60% share among gamers.

This week, users raised concerns about Microsoft deploying Windows updates on systems approaching end-of-support. Following the backlash, Microsoft temporarily addressed these issues, dispelling rumors that Windows had lost 400 million users—a figure speculated to be linked to the outdated Windows 10 systems that cannot support Windows 11. The Public Interest Research Group criticized Microsoft’s inadequate support for these machines, insisting that a mere year of free security updates is insufficient.

This week also saw an expansion of the bug list for Windows 11 version 24H2, particularly regarding the interaction between upcoming features and Windows Firewall.

To wrap up this week’s Windows segment, be sure to check out a blog entry that highlights how a young teenager contributed to improving Microsoft’s product security. Additionally, explore a fascinating design concept that melds the aesthetics of Windows 95, 98, XP, 10, and 11.

Screenshots of widgets on desktop in Windows Classic Remastered concept

Windows Insider Program Updates

Here are the latest releases for Windows Insiders this week:

Build Updates
Canary Channel	Build 27891 This update removes the deprecated PowerShell 2.0, enhances the Microsoft Store, and resolves various bugs within the OS.
Dev Channel	No new updates this week.
Beta Channel	No updates recorded this week.
Release Preview Channel	No new releases this week.

Although this week’s build updates were limited, enthusiasts uncovered several exciting new features. A redesigned battery indicator for the Windows 11 lock screen is set to roll out, though current public testing is not yet available.

Latest Software and Feature Updates

This section highlights key software, firmware, and feature updates rolled out by Microsoft and other third parties, designed to enhance functionality, security, and overall user experience.

With June wrapped up, Microsoft has released recaps detailing new features for its productivity applications, which include Teams, Excel, Microsoft 365 Copilot, among others. Noteworthy updates for Office users comprise dynamic DPI support in OneNote, allowing for automatic adjustments when moving between displays with varying DPI settings, alongside new features in Outlook mobile. Teams is rolling out a new Storyline feature, while Planner introduces bulk editing capabilities.

On the browser front, significant updates were seen with the release of Opera version 120, which now includes a built-in translator and an improved Opera Pro VPN. For Android users, Opera 90 has introduced a more intelligent Aria AI along with various enhancements.

If you’re an Edge user, you might find a handy guide aimed at optimizing your scroll bars for a cleaner, modern look useful. Additionally, while Microsoft removed Mica from the Edge browser, you have the option to restore it through a specific command.

Similarly, Vivaldi has launched version 7.5, providing colorful tab stacks and revised tab menus, among other features.

Additional noteworthy updates include:

Confirmation from Microsoft that Intune is currently experiencing issues.
The release of Skype for Business Server SE due to unresolved complications with Teams.
Instructions from Microsoft on rectifying a recently broken OneDrive search function.
Upcoming Office app functionality that simplifies requesting permission for files with restricted access.
Microsoft 365 Copilot expanding support to six new languages, totaling 48 supported languages.
The release of PowerToys 0.92 featuring performance enhancements and a built-in speed test tool.

In terms of drivers and firmware updates, this week brought:

AMD Radeon Software 25.6.3 with support for FSR 4 in titles like GTA V and Monster Hunter: Wilds.
Nvidia’s driver version 576.88 introduced support for the RTX 5050, alongside DLSS 4 for Mecha BREAK and more.
News that Nvidia is discontinuing support for several classic graphics cards.

Hardware and Software Reviews

This week’s reviews include a variety of hardware and software considered.

Robbie Khan evaluated the Mobapad Huden2, marking it as one of the early gamepads featuring capacitive joystick controls. Despite offering stellar performance and an enjoyable app experience, it is not without drawbacks, such as a steep price, insufficient vibration feedback, and some trigger inconsistencies.

Additionally, Robbie reviewed the Topping DX5 II, a high-performance headphones amplifier and DAC combination, priced under $300.

Steven Parker provided insights into the REDMAGIC Astra gaming tablet, a 9-inch device boasting a remarkable 165Hz OLED display, impressive battery life, and solid performance. However, the lack of mobile connectivity options and charger are notable downsides.

redmagic astra gaming tablet product photos

Gaming News and Developments

The gaming sector faced a storm of unfavorable news this week. Microsoft disclosed a considerable number of layoffs, significantly impacting its gaming divisions. Reports indicate that at least three games have been canceled, and half the staff at Turn 10 Studios has been let go, including the total cancellation of Perfect Dark. Adding to the controversy, an executive suggested that those affected might find solace in artificial intelligence.

In light of the upheaval, a former executive articulated a stark critique, describing the current Xbox strategy as chaotic and asserting that the overall gaming business is in decline.

On a brighter note, the rebranded Halo Studios has hinted at substantial announcements in store for fans later this year, with a big reveal expected in October, as mentioned in their latest blog update on Halo Waypoint.

Helldivers 2 is shedding its console exclusivity, set to launch on Xbox Series X|S on August 26, with pre-orders already available in the Microsoft Store.

Microsoft has also announced new additions to Game Pass, featuring titles such as Little Nightmares II, Rise of the Tomb Raider, Trials of Mana, and more for this month.

Prime Gaming has followed suit, unveiling its latest offerings and bonuses, including titles like Dungeon of the ENDLESS Definitive Edition and Saints Row 2, enhancing its appeal to subscribers.

Furthermore, Nvidia’s cloud streaming service GeForce NOW has expanded its library, adding a collection of titles including Killing Floor 3.

Mojang has shared exciting updates for the upcoming content rollouts in Minecraft, featuring the introduction of a new copper golem and gear. The new mechanics are designed to assist players in organizing their storage seamlessly, and you can explore these changes in the latest preview update for Minecraft Bedrock Edition.

Finally, this week’s Weekend PC Game Deals issue features free titles from the Epic Games Store alongside a variety of discounted offerings from various retailers.

In addition, check out ongoing hardware and software discounts, including: