Microsoft has introduced a tool called Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery, which allows the company to remotely roll back problematic Windows drivers after they have been distributed via Windows Update. This tool aims to reduce the need for manual intervention from hardware manufacturers and end-users by replacing faulty drivers with the last known stable version. Additionally, Microsoft is working on enhancements for Windows 11, including a redesigned Start menu and a comprehensive reset feature. At the WinHEC 2026 conference, Microsoft also announced a new Driver Quality Initiative to maintain high standards in driver performance and reliability, which will support the effectiveness of the recovery tool.
The Skelly app, developed by Proko LLC, is a poseable, anatomically correct skeleton reference tool for artists, available for USD 6.99. It has over 10,000 downloads and a rating of 4.1 stars. Key features include a simplified version called "Robo-Skelly," proportions based on Dr. Paul Richer's teachings, compatibility with the "Loomis Head" technique, complete poseability, a Pose Library, movable camera, adjustable light source, options for light or dark backgrounds, and a reset feature. The app aims to assist artists in studying human anatomy and enhancing their creative process without the need for live models.
Microsoft has announced two new tools for enhancing Windows PC recovery capabilities within organizations: point-in-time restore and cloud rebuild.
Point-in-time restore allows users to revert their system to a previous state by taking snapshots of the Windows environment at various intervals, facilitating recovery from issues like update failures and driver conflicts. This feature will be available for testing by Windows insiders in an upcoming build.
Cloud rebuild enables IT administrators to restore the operating system directly from the cloud, similar to the existing Reset feature. Administrators can select the Windows version and language through the Microsoft Intune portal, prompting the PC to download the necessary installation media. This tool resets Windows while allowing for the restoration of personal files, applications, and settings using OneDrive and Windows Backup for Organizations.
Both tools are designed for businesses using Microsoft Intune and are expected to be integrated into Intune in the first half of 2026 as part of Microsoft's Windows Resiliency Initiative. Additionally, Microsoft is introducing Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) to address boot-up problems and enhance Windows driver resilience.
The Borderlands 4 patch notes have been released alongside the Horrors of Kairos Halloween event, addressing unintended interactions that caused excessive damage scaling and boss-melting builds. A change that hindered players' ability to speed-farm bosses for loot was confirmed as unintentional and will be reverted. The vendor trick for resetting character skill cooldowns has been disrupted but will be reinstated. Several character abilities, such as Vex's Bloodletter passive and Harlowe's Neutron Capture, have been adjusted, with some effects being significantly reduced. The cost of specialization respects has decreased from 5,000 Eridium to 1,500, and improvements have been made to the Lost Loot machine's logic. New Shift codes for Borderlands 4 are available for players to collect Golden Keys.
Windows 10 reached its end of life on October 14, 2025, leaving many computers vulnerable due to the lack of security updates. Microsoft offers the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, providing essential security patches until October 13, 2026, but without new features or comprehensive support. The ESU license can cover up to 10 eligible home PCs linked to a single Microsoft account. Enrollment options include a free sync option, a rewards points redemption, or a paid option. Alternatively, users can install ChromeOS Flex, a lightweight operating system suitable for older hardware, but this will erase all data on the hard drive. For very old PCs, it may be best to retire the machine, ensuring secure data erasure before recycling or donating. It is critical to avoid leaving unsupported Windows 10 PCs connected to the internet due to increased vulnerability to cyber threats.
Windows 10 has officially reached its retirement phase as of October 14, and Microsoft will no longer provide free security updates, leaving many PCs vulnerable, especially those without the TPM 2.0 security chip needed for Windows 11. Users can consider three options for continued safety:
1. Extended Security Updates (ESU): This program offers critical security patches for an additional year until October 13, 2026. It covers up to 10 eligible home PCs linked to a single Microsoft account, with enrollment options including a free sync option, redeeming Microsoft Rewards points, or a paid option.
2. Install ChromeOS Flex: This free, lightweight operating system can replace Windows 10, making older PCs function like Chromebooks, which is beneficial for web-based tasks. However, it will erase all data on the hard drive, so backing up is necessary.
3. Retire the PC: For older machines (pre-2010) or those not switching operating systems, securely erasing the hard drive before recycling or donating is recommended. Organizations like Data Doctors collaborate with programs to repurpose or recycle devices.
Leaving an unsupported Windows 10 PC connected to the internet poses a significant risk of cyberattacks, making it essential to take action.
Ubuntu lacks a system reset feature, requiring users to use a live USB for clean installations. It does not support repair upgrades using the latest ISO image. There is no system restore function, meaning users must perform full reinstalls to recover from issues. Ubuntu also lacks Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities in its screenshot tool and image applications, forcing reliance on external solutions. Additionally, there is no seamless phone integration like Windows' Phone Link app, limiting productivity. Despite its user-friendly interface and package management, these missing features hinder Ubuntu's appeal as a leading Linux distribution.
Microsoft released emergency patches, known as "out-of-band" updates, to address critical issues with its operating systems. The updates include KB5066189 for Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2, KB5066188 for Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2, and KB5066187 for Windows 10 LTSC 2019. These updates fix problems caused by the August 2025 security update, which led to installation failures (error code 0x8007007F) and disrupted reset and restore functionalities on Windows devices. The updates are available through Windows Update, but users must manually select and install the appropriate patch.
Microsoft has acknowledged a significant issue affecting the Reset and Recovery operations on Windows 11 23H2/22H2 and Windows 10, following the installation of update KB5063875. Users are advised to refrain from using the built-in Reset and Recovery feature due to potential failures. An out-of-band update is expected to address this problem, with a possible release as early as today. Windows 11 24H2 is not affected, but Windows 10 users are awaiting the emergency update. Additionally, there are reports of another August update causing corruption in PC SSDs during large file writes. Currently, Windows does not warn users about the potential failure of the Reset and Recovery feature, which may lead to unintended resets.
