Insider Program

Winsage
July 7, 2025
Microsoft has officially announced the discontinuation of PowerShell 2.0, as confirmed through a recent update from the Windows Insider program. PowerShell 2.0, which debuted with Windows 7 and was included in several other versions, has been deprecated since 2017 but remained available for backward compatibility. Most current Insider Preview builds of Windows 11 have removed PowerShell 2.0, and it has also been deprecated for Windows Server. Microsoft has not provided a specific timeline for its removal from the server operating system.
Winsage
July 3, 2025
A recent update to Windows 11 24H2 has caused confusion among users due to a "under development" code disrupting the Windows Firewall, following the installation of the June 2025 non-security preview update. An error logged in the Event Viewer states 'Config Read Failed' with 'More data is available,' appearing every time the device restarts. Microsoft has confirmed that these logs do not indicate a real problem with the Windows Firewall and can be ignored, as the firewall is expected to function normally. The issue is linked to an unfinished feature, and while it complicates device health monitoring, it does not significantly disrupt operations. Microsoft is working on a fix but has not provided a timeline for resolution.
AppWizard
June 27, 2025
The Xbox PC store aggregation is being rolled out to select members of the Xbox Insider Program on Windows 11, allowing some users to see games from platforms like Battle.net, the Epic Games Store, and Steam within the Xbox PC app. This feature is currently in a testing phase, with some users experiencing low-resolution artwork for certain titles and being redirected to their respective Steam clients when launching games. Players with multiple versions of a game across different storefronts will see those titles listed together. This development is part of Microsoft's efforts to enhance the gaming experience on Windows 11, coinciding with the upcoming launch of the Xbox Ally handheld devices.
Winsage
June 26, 2025
Microsoft has launched the Secure Future Initiative (SFI) to strengthen its security against cyber threats following recent breaches. The Windows Resiliency Initiative, part of the SFI, introduced features like Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) and enhanced Administrator protection for consumer users. Microsoft is also integrating existing Windows 11 security features, such as Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-In Security (ESS). A recent update to the Windows Resiliency Initiative was announced, emphasizing the need for accessible information for users.
Winsage
June 26, 2025
Microsoft has announced an extension of Windows 10 support until October 2026 at no additional cost, affecting approximately 400 million users. This extension was previously set to end in October 2025. Users with eligible PCs for an upgrade number around 400 million, while about 240 million are not eligible. The extension includes Security Intelligence Updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus on Windows 10 through October 2028, but it is a one-year arrangement and not full security support. Users can enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program through options like cloud backup, reward points, or a fee, and this feature will be available to all users in the coming weeks.
Winsage
June 25, 2025
Microsoft has introduced a small language model named "Mu" to enhance AI agents in the Windows 11 Settings app. This model operates on Neural Processing Units (NPUs) and is designed to automate tasks on users' PCs with granted permissions. Mu was developed with attention to NPU memory constraints, ensuring efficient operation through NPU-optimized processes. The model aims for ultra-low latency, achieving response times under 500 milliseconds, and is integrated into the search box of the Settings app. Currently, AI agents powered by Mu are being tested among Windows Insiders, who can also explore an update to the Recall app.
Winsage
June 24, 2025
Windows has been the most widely used operating system globally since its launch in 1985, currently powering over a billion active devices each month. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, meaning Microsoft will stop providing security and feature updates, as well as technical support for Windows 10 PCs. Users can check their eligibility for upgrading to Windows 11 through the Settings menu or the PC Health Check app. Windows 11 features enhanced security, improved performance, and a modern user interface, with built-in accessibility tools and AI capabilities. The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will provide critical security updates for personal devices from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. Organizations can subscribe to ESU for continued security updates for a year, with the option to renew annually. Windows 365 offers a cloud-based solution for transitioning to Windows 11 without needing to replace all devices immediately. Various Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs are available from partners like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, and Surface.
Winsage
June 24, 2025
Microsoft has released new preview versions of Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025 to members of the Windows Insider Program. A notable feature in the update is a new setting that allows users to reposition the volume indicator from the bottom edge of the screen to either the top edge or the top-left corner. This adjustment will also affect the brightness indicator. The new feature is expected to be available to the public later this summer.
Winsage
June 24, 2025
Windows 11 has received an update to the Start menu that enhances customization and accessibility for users in the Insider Program. This update allows users to create a scrollable list of applications and categorize them according to personal preferences, improving access to frequently used apps. Users can now switch between Category, Grid, or List views directly from the Start menu, simplifying the customization process. The update also expands scrolling capability, reducing the need for multiple clicks to access additional recommendations and promoting a more organized workspace. Users interested in this functionality can join the Windows Insider Program to select their update channel.
AppWizard
June 24, 2025
The revamped Xbox app on PC has introduced an 'aggregated gaming library' feature, allowing users to manage all their installed games from a single interface. This feature is currently available for Xbox Insiders and supports various platforms, including Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and other leading PC storefronts. The app will display games from supported storefronts under the My Library and Most Recent sections. Users can customize their experience by disabling the feature or hiding games from specific stores. The feature is set to debut this holiday season on the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, with plans for Microsoft to expand support for additional PC storefronts over time.
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