Microsoft is evolving its offerings in artificial intelligence, particularly with updates announced at its Copilot event, which signify a shift towards a more integrated Microsoft 365 experience. The latest version of Copilot aims to create a cohesive workspace that connects documents, conversations, data, and tasks, making AI more accessible for everyday users and enterprise customers. CEO Satya Nadella emphasized the importance of keeping humans "in the flow of work" and creating systems that learn continuously.
Key features include Autopilot, a digital teammate that manages tasks across Microsoft Teams, Outlook, and other applications, allowing users to focus on strategic initiatives. At the core of these advancements is Microsoft IQ, a unified intelligence layer that connects data and workflows throughout the Microsoft ecosystem. Microsoft is also introducing a plugin registry for custom integrations and implementing FinOps for AI to optimize spending. Regular consumers can access these features based on their M365 Premium or Pro subscriptions, with further developments expected at Microsoft Ignite in November.
A lifetime license for Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 is available for .97, granting access to applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access on a single Windows PC. This version does not include features of Microsoft 365, such as cloud storage, but offers a cost-effective alternative without recurring fees. The software does not require a Microsoft account and can be used offline. It has a streamlined interface focused on functionality rather than the latest AI enhancements. Prices may change, so prompt action is recommended for potential buyers.
Windows 11's September update, released on the 8th, has caused various issues, including problems with Remote Desktop, USB audio, and Linux/WSL applications. Failures in File History, crashes of Explorer.exe, and instability with AMD GPUs were also reported. An emergency update was issued on September 14 but did not resolve all issues. Over nine months, Windows 11 updates have resulted in numerous bugs, while Windows 10 has experienced significantly fewer issues. Specific problems with Windows 11 included black screens and authentication issues in January, Microsoft account sign-in issues in March, BitLocker recovery problems in April and May, boot failures in June, and compatibility problems in July. August saw game crashes linked to third-party drivers, and September was marked by extensive issues requiring an emergency update. Windows 10 continues to receive updates and has a commitment to Extended Security Updates until October 12, 2027. The stability of Windows 10 is attributed to fewer significant changes compared to the ongoing enhancements in Windows 11.
Microsoft will retire the Calendar, People, and Files companion apps from its Microsoft 365 suite on December 16, 2026. These apps were launched a year ago to enhance productivity by providing quick access to information via the Windows 11 taskbar. However, their role has shifted from essential tools to supplementary resources, as users can access the same information through existing Microsoft services. Microsoft recommends alternatives such as Outlook, Teams, Windows Search, File Explorer, SharePoint, OneDrive, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for users to utilize after the retirement of these apps.
Microsoft will retire its Microsoft 365 companion apps for Windows 11, including the Calendar, People, and Files companion apps, by December 16, 2026. These apps were introduced at no additional cost to users with eligible Microsoft 365 or Office 365 licenses, with the Files and People apps debuting in March 2025 and the Calendar app in May 2025. Microsoft integrated its Copilot feature into these applications last October. Users are advised not to wait until the retirement date, as the apps will become non-functional prior to December 16. Administrators can remove these apps as needed, and Microsoft has provided a template for notifying users. Alternatives for functionality include Outlook, Teams, Windows Search Box, File Explorer, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Office applications.
The bundle includes a Microsoft Office Pro license for permanent installation of applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access on a single PC, with Publisher support ending after October 2026. It also features Windows 11 Pro, which includes tools like BitLocker for data security, Remote Desktop for remote access, Hyper-V for running virtual machines, Snap Layouts for multitasking, and the Copilot feature for managing quick actions from the taskbar.
In early 2025, Microsoft introduced three applications—“People,” “Files,” and “Calendar”—as part of its “Microsoft 365 companions” initiative to enhance productivity. These apps were integrated into the Windows 11 taskbar for managing Microsoft 365 features. Microsoft planned to automatically install these apps on eligible PCs starting in late October 2025, but later decided to discontinue them. The companion apps will be retired by December 16, 2026, and users must manually uninstall them as they will not be removed automatically. To uninstall, users can go to Windows Settings > Apps > Installed apps or use PowerShell commands.
Google has announced its new operating system, Googlebook OS, previously known as Aluminium OS, alongside the launch of the Googlebook laptop series. Googlebook OS allows Android applications to run natively, enhancing performance compared to ChromeOS. It features "Continue On," which enables task transfer from mobile apps to the laptop, and incorporates AI tools like "Magic Pointer" for assistant access and "Rambler" for improved voice input. Users can also create personalized widgets with the "Create My Widget" option. Googlebook OS is positioned as a distinct product with advanced capabilities, although future commercial device details are not yet available.
Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 is available for .97, down from its regular price of 9. This offer is valid until September 27 and provides a lifetime license for one Windows PC, with no recurring fees. The suite includes applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access, and features enhanced inking capabilities, new analytical tools in Excel, upgraded PowerPoint features, and improved Outlook functionalities. Users receive an immediate email with the download link and license key, which must be redeemed within seven days. The offer supports all languages and includes updates for the 2019 version.
