This week’s developments in the tech world have brought a mix of stability and excitement, particularly for Microsoft and its vast ecosystem. The company has finally rolled out several Insider features to the general public, marking a significant milestone for Windows 10 and 11 users.
Windows 11 and Windows 10
In a noteworthy update, Microsoft has released two Cumulative Update Previews that usher in a host of new features for Windows 11 and Windows 10. The update KB5101681 for Windows 11 (build 28000.2608) introduces calendar-based Windows Update pausing, a quieter Widgets experience, and enhanced accessibility features such as Screen Tint and Magnifier. Meanwhile, KB5101684 for Windows 10 (builds 26200.8973/26100.8973) brings Voice Isolation for Voice Access and new precision touchpad gesture controls, enhancing user interaction.
On the financial front, Microsoft has wrapped up fiscal year 2026 with impressive results, reporting a record billion quarter, reflecting an 18% increase year-over-year. Notably, Azure has crossed the 0 billion mark in annual revenue for the first time, while Microsoft 365 Copilot has seen its paid seat count soar past 30 million. This robust performance has positively impacted Microsoft’s stock, which surged over 15% following the announcement.
However, the week was not without its challenges. Xbox experienced a significant outage that lasted nearly a day, affecting account sign-ins, the Store, games, and mobile services. Xbox CTO Scott Van Vliet attributed the disruption to a failure in a shared licensing service across Microsoft’s products, but services have since been restored. Additionally, Microsoft is reportedly working on a more efficient context menu for Windows, aimed at streamlining user actions and enhancing customization options.
Windows Insider Program
The Windows Insider Program has also been active, with two Future Platforms builds released this week—29634.1000 and 29639.1000. These builds introduce features such as Voice Isolation and braille display support in Narrator. A key highlight is the new scheduling system for Windows updates, allowing users to pause updates indefinitely.
Beta builds 26220.9022 and 28020.2623 have finally enabled taskbar customization, giving users the flexibility to reposition it or minimize its size. Experimental builds 26300.9032 and 28120.2630 are enhancing user experience with smarter Search indexing, Phone Link previews in Start, and an adaptive hibernate policy designed to improve battery life.
Updates are available
In terms of updates, Wintoys has received a significant performance-focused update, transitioning to .NET 10 and Windows App SDK 2.3.1. However, it faced a security scare with the emergence of a fraudulent website impersonating the tool. Meanwhile, Notepad, Calculator, Clock, and Media Player have undergone minor updates aimed primarily at stability and bug fixes, with a broader rollout expected next Patch Tuesday.
Excel’s July update emphasizes Copilot, adding Power BI support, citations, and brand tools while eliminating the AutoSave requirement, further enhancing user functionality.
Reviews are in
This week, Steven Parker reviewed the TEAMGROUP NV 10000, a fast and reliable SSD that not only met but exceeded its rated speeds. With a competitive price point and a five-year warranty, this SSD is certainly worth considering for those in the market for storage solutions.
On the gaming side
In the gaming arena, Microsoft has confirmed a robust presence at Gamescom 2026, celebrating Xbox’s 25th anniversary with 140 gaming stations and 25 playable titles, including anticipated releases like Modern Warfare 4 and Fable.
However, the week also saw challenges for some studios. Double Fine laid off 23 employees, approximately 30% of its workforce, following its separation from Xbox, a move deemed necessary for the studio’s survival. On a different note, Ubisoft faced mixed news, with the cancellation of Project Maverick but the promise of a new ambitious project emerging from its remnants. Additionally, Xbox console owners can now unlock PC versions of select games on Ubisoft Connect at no extra cost.
In multiplayer gaming, Gears of War: E-Day revealed a new 12-player Horde Siege mode, allowing three squads to collaborate against formidable Locust bosses.
Great deals to check
This week also brings a variety of deals on hardware and software, providing opportunities for savvy shoppers to find valuable discounts. Keep an eye out for these offers, as they could present the perfect chance to upgrade your tech arsenal.
For more insights and updates, readers can explore previous issues of the Microsoft Weekly series and consider supporting Neowin by registering for a free member account or subscribing for additional benefits, including an ad-free experience.
