Outlook app Archives

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Windows 11 and 10 receive key security improvements

Microsoft has released significant updates for Windows 11 and Windows 10, focusing on system security and user-friendly features. The February 2025 update includes security patches and functional improvements for both operating systems. For Windows 11 users on versions 23H2 and 24H2, notable features include automatic tab restoration in File Explorer, quick access to Windows Studio Effects from the taskbar for devices with Neural Processing Units (NPU), refined taskbar app preview animations, and improvements to Auto HDR for better visual clarity in games. Additionally, issues with slow shutdowns when game controllers are connected and USB camera recognition have been addressed. For Windows 10 users on builds 19044.5487 and 19045.5487, the update integrates the new Outlook app into the system menu while preserving existing email settings and fixes a virtual memory leak issue that caused crashes in resource-intensive applications. Both updates address 55 security vulnerabilities, including: - CVE-2025-21391: risk of unauthorized file deletion in Windows storage - CVE-2025-21377: NTLM hash leakage potentially compromising user accounts - CVE-2025-21194: flaw in the hypervisor that could bypass UEFI security Users are advised to install these updates promptly due to the increased risk of exploitation. Some features will be rolled out gradually over the coming weeks.

Winsage

February 14, 2025

Windows Server 2022 KB5051979 released, direct download .msu

The February 2025 security patch for Windows Server 2022, KB5051979, resolves issues with Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) devices and USB peripherals that previously displayed error code 10. It upgrades the system to Build 20348.3207, fixing a memory leak related to predictive input ideas and issues with the Device Health Attestation service. The update also addresses crashes related to symbolic links and acknowledges lingering harmless errors from the January 2025 update, specifically concerning the System Guard Runtime Monitor Broker Service. Users of OpenSSH and Citrix may face conflicts due to the January update. Some fixes are also applied to Windows 10 with KB5051974. Additionally, Microsoft has resolved a boot error in Windows Server 2025 and released cumulative updates KB5051989 and KB5051987 for Windows 11.

Winsage

February 13, 2025

How to prevent forced installation of new Outlook on Windows 10 PCs

In February 2025, Microsoft began a mandatory update for Windows 10 users that included the forced installation of the new Outlook app as part of a strategy to integrate it into their ecosystem. This installation is linked to the KB5051974 update, which is a critical security patch. Users can prevent the new Outlook from being installed by modifying the Windows registry, specifically by creating a new string value named BlockedOobeUpdaters and setting its value data to ["MS_Outlook"]. This process must be repeated with each subsequent Windows 10 update. For users who have already had the new Outlook installed, it cannot be uninstalled through standard methods but can be removed using Windows PowerShell with the command: Remove-AppxProvisionedPackage -AllUsers -Online -PackageName (Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.OutlookForWindows).PackageFullName. Additionally, to uninstall unsupported Mail or Calendar apps, the command is: Get-AppxProvisionedPackage -Online | Where {$.DisplayName -match "microsoft.windowscommunicationsapps"} | Remove-AppxProvisionedPackage -Online -PackageName {$.PackageName}.

Winsage

February 13, 2025

Windows 10 users get surprise free upgrade Windows 11 has enjoyed for months

Windows 10, launched in 2015, is nearing the end of its lifecycle, with Microsoft announcing that support will conclude after October 2023. Users will no longer receive complimentary software updates for security and functionality. Microsoft has released the new Outlook app for Windows 10 users through the KB5051974 cumulative update, which includes essential security patches. This new version will coexist with the classic Outlook, providing users with two icons on their desktops. The update also addresses bugs affecting the Snipping Tool and audio and camera performance. After October 2025, users on Windows 10 will not receive free updates. Upgrading to Windows 11 is an option, but users must meet minimum system requirements to avoid performance issues. Microsoft advises users on underpowered devices to revert to Windows 10 if they experience problems after upgrading.

Winsage

February 13, 2025

Microsoft just installed a new app on everyone’s Windows 10 PCs, and nobody wants it

Users of the latest Windows 10 update have encountered a new Outlook app intended to replace the Mail and Calendar applications, but feedback has been largely negative. The new app is reported to be slower than the previous Mail app, and its reliance on cloud storage has raised privacy concerns. Additionally, the integration of advertisements within the email interface has frustrated users. A third-party tool has been developed to block the installation of the new Outlook app. Microsoft has provided resources to help users manage data usage and optimize their experience with the new app.

Winsage

February 12, 2025

Windows 10 KB5051974 update adds a new app without asking

Microsoft has released the KB5051974 cumulative update for Windows operating systems versions 22H2 and 21H2, which includes essential security fixes and addresses a memory leak issue. This mandatory update introduces the new Outlook for Windows app, which can run alongside the classic version, allowing users to transition at their own pace. The update resolves several issues, including: - Fixing the code 10 error message stating, “This device cannot start,” after the January 2025 security update. - Removing automatic suggestions from Bing in the search box for alternative search engines like Baidu. - Restoring functionality for USB audio devices using a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). - Correcting a problem where USB cameras failed to recognize when powered on. - Mitigating an issue that drained virtual memory, potentially causing applications to malfunction. The classic Outlook app is set to be retired in April 2026, prompting Microsoft's push towards the new app.

Winsage

February 12, 2025

Microsoft is forcing the new Outlook for Windows app on Windows 10 users with the mandatory KB5051974 update

Microsoft has released cumulative update KB5051974 for Windows 10, which includes the automatic installation of the new Outlook for Windows app. The update highlights also mention fixes for various issues: - Resolved a problem where the Capture Service and Snipping Tool would stop responding when using the Windows logo key+Shift+S with Narrator active. - Stopped automatic suggestions in the Chinese Pinyin input method editor for search engines like Baidu, requiring manual suggestions via Ctrl+Tab or the chevron button. - Fixed playback interruptions with USB audio devices using USB 1.0 drivers. - Addressed a code 10 error message for certain external audio management devices. - Solved a recognition issue for USB cameras following the January 2025 security update. The update also includes security enhancements and bug fixes related to virtual memory, printer failures, and NFC readers.

Winsage

February 11, 2025

Windows 10 KB5051974 update force installs new Microsoft Outlook app

Microsoft has released the KB5051974 cumulative update for Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2, which includes the new Outlook for Windows app and addresses a memory leak issue. This mandatory update provides essential security updates for January 2025 and can be installed via Windows Update. After installation, version 22H2 will be updated to build 19045.5487, and version 21H2 to build 19044.5487. Users can also manually download the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update includes several fixes, such as the introduction of the new Outlook app, resolution of issues with the Capture Service and Snipping Tool, disabling automatic suggestions from Bing in the Chinese Pinyin IME, fixes for USB audio device driver issues, and a solution for virtual memory depletion. Three known issues from previous updates include potential failures in OpenSSH connections, installation failures due to the Citrix Session Recording Agent, and an Event 7023 error related to SgrmBroker.exe, which does not affect device functionality. Microsoft plans to address these issues in future updates.

Winsage

February 10, 2025

9 tools that will supercharge your productivity on Windows

- Microsoft Outlook is a free, built-in tool for managing emails, appointments, meetings, and tasks, featuring calendar sharing and integration with Microsoft To Do. - IFTTT automates repetitive tasks by connecting various apps, services, and devices through customized applets. - The Windows Snipping Tool captures screenshots, records desktop activity, supports full-screen video recording, and has OCR capabilities for text extraction from images. - Microsoft PowerToys is a suite of utilities that enhances the Windows experience, including tools for multitasking, file management, and keeping the PC active. - Grammarly provides real-time grammar and spelling checks, compatible with platforms like Microsoft Word and Google Docs, with a premium version offering advanced features. - Obsidian uses Markdown to create interconnected notes, allowing users to build a personal knowledge base with customizable plugins. - Microsoft 365 includes applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with collaboration tools like Teams and OneDrive, with regular updates for new features and security. - UniGetUI is a package manager that simplifies app installations by allowing users to select and install multiple applications simultaneously. - Flow Launcher allows users to quickly launch applications, files, and websites, enhancing workflow efficiency and providing flexibility as a portable app or standard installation.

Winsage

December 23, 2024

I made the switch from Mac to Windows and I’m regretting it

The transition from a MacBook Pro to an HP Spectre x360 has highlighted significant differences between macOS and Windows 11. Windows 11, despite improvements in its user interface, suffers from inconsistent design elements, with modern apps contrasting sharply with older tools. First-party applications also show design discrepancies, and third-party apps on Windows often lack the quality and features found on macOS. Exclusive macOS applications, such as CleanShot X and MoneyCoach, offer superior functionality compared to their Windows counterparts. File management is notably better on macOS, with Finder providing a more efficient experience than File Explorer, and the Preview app offering useful features for PDF editing and image manipulation. Overall, the user experience on macOS is perceived as more polished and intuitive compared to Windows.