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These three Microsoft 365 apps lasted just one year before getting axed
Winsage
September 24, 2026

These three Microsoft 365 apps lasted just one year before getting axed

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 is quietly testing a Windows 11 button to uninstall AI bloat
Winsage
June 3, 2026

Microsoft is quietly testing a Windows 11 button to uninstall AI bloat

A new feature in the experimental build of Windows 11 (Insider build 26300.8553) allows users to uninstall AI components directly from the System settings via a dedicated button. This feature was discovered by a beta tester and is not officially mentioned in Microsoft's changelog. Each AI component will have an uninstall button to help users manage their system's storage. The timeline for the feature's rollout to all Windows 11 users is currently uncertain, and Microsoft has not commented on its availability.
Microsoft to unveil new AI models and Windows improvements at Build
Winsage
June 1, 2026

Microsoft to unveil new AI models and Windows improvements at Build

Microsoft will make significant announcements at its Build conference in San Francisco, focusing on rekindling its relationship with developers. Key highlights include new AI initiatives, such as a groundbreaking reasoning model and a Copilot "super app" that integrates various AI assistants, with a preview expected in late summer. Enhancements to Windows 11 aimed at developers will be introduced, featuring a distraction-free environment with pre-installed tools. Microsoft will also showcase performance improvements for Windows 11 and discuss adaptations for new hardware like Nvidia’s RTX Spark, emphasizing local computing capabilities. The conference will feature the introduction of the MAI-Thinking-1 reasoning model for enterprise applications, along with other AI developments. Microsoft is addressing challenges with GitHub, which has faced setbacks, as it aims to restore trust among developers. The conference is scheduled for June 2nd.
Microsoft finally begins removing Copilot from Notepad on Windows 11 — but the AI still persists
Winsage
April 9, 2026

Microsoft finally begins removing Copilot from Notepad on Windows 11 — but the AI still persists

Microsoft has removed the Copilot label from various applications in Windows 11, including Notepad, which now features "writing tools" instead of the Copilot icon and terminology. References to AI have been removed from the Notepad Settings, with AI-powered tools now managed under "Advanced features." This change is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to simplify AI interactions across the operating system, responding to user feedback about the Copilot brand. Similar rebranding is expected for other applications, including Paint and File Explorer. The initiative aims to enhance user experience by reducing bloat and improving system stability and reliability.
Messenger.com web messaging to end in April 2026
AppWizard
February 17, 2026

Messenger.com web messaging to end in April 2026

As of April 2026, Messenger.com will no longer support messaging functionalities, and the Messenger desktop application will also be discontinued. Users will be redirected to Facebook.com/messages for messaging on a computer. Conversations can still continue on the Facebook messaging interface or through the Messenger mobile application.
Insider build focuses on further AI integration in Windows 11
Winsage
December 22, 2025

Insider build focuses on further AI integration in Windows 11

Microsoft has released a new preview version of Windows 11 for Windows Insider Program members, featuring builds 26220.7522 and 26220.7523 in the Dev and Beta channels. The update focuses on integrating artificial intelligence, particularly enhancing the Copilot feature for quicker access to contextual actions via the taskbar. New agents are being tested to assist with tasks within the Windows environment. Usability improvements include updates to the Narrator screen reader, touch keyboard, and voice typing functionalities, along with a new Discover Windows widget to help users find features. The release also includes various bug fixes related to the taskbar, Windows Search, Bluetooth connectivity, and File Explorer, while cautioning users about known issues. Insiders can temporarily switch between the Dev and Beta channels, but this option will end as higher build numbers are released.
Microsoft is speeding up and decluttering File Explorer in Windows 11
Winsage
November 25, 2025

Microsoft is speeding up and decluttering File Explorer in Windows 11

Microsoft is enhancing the File Explorer in Windows 11 with a preloading feature to improve startup speed, particularly on less powerful hardware like handhelds and tablets. Users will have the option to disable this feature if they prefer not to run File Explorer in the background. Additionally, the context menu is being refined to declutter the interface by moving less frequently used actions into submenus and introducing a new manage file flyout that consolidates various functions. Cloud file options will also be organized into a dedicated flyout. These updates are currently in testing in the latest Dev preview builds, with a broader rollout expected in early 2026.
Google Meet will finally sunset legacy Duo features in September
AppWizard
May 30, 2025

Google Meet will finally sunset legacy Duo features in September

Google Meet will fully replace legacy Duo calling features by September 2025. Users should update the Meet app and save their Duo call history and messages before this date. Some legacy features will be removed, but Google Meet will offer upgraded functionalities such as live captions, in-call chat, stackable effects, cloud encryption, and screen sharing. Users must keep their Meet app updated to ensure a smooth transition; if not all participants are updated, calls will revert to the legacy experience. Users are also encouraged to export their call history and video messages from the Duo app.
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