Windows app

Winsage
March 18, 2026
The latest update for Copilot has transformed it into a WebView-based application, marking it as a hybrid app rather than fully native. The new Copilot (version 146.0.3856.63) operates as a web application, evidenced by multiple sub-processes in the Task Manager that are characteristic of Microsoft Edge. The version number of Copilot aligns closely with that of Microsoft Edge. The revamped Copilot functions as a web app within a desktop shell but loads content from copilot.microsoft.com. Despite its web-based nature, it performs comparably to its native predecessor and launches more quickly. Microsoft had previously announced a "native" version of Copilot, which was misleading as it still relied on web components. In 2025, Microsoft began distributing a truly native Copilot app, free of web components, which started in March 2025. However, the Copilot has now reverted to a web-based format for users in the Windows Insider Program, with plans to extend this change to non-Insiders soon.
Winsage
March 12, 2026
In March, Microsoft released cumulative security updates for Windows 10 and Windows 11, with support for certain versions continuing until March 2026. The updates include KB5079466 for Windows 11 version 26H1, KB5079473 for versions 24H2 and 25H2, KB5078883 for version 23H2, and KB5078885 for Windows 10 version 22H2. These updates will be distributed via Windows Update, the Microsoft Update Catalog, and WSUS for enterprise environments. This month, Microsoft combined the Servicing Stack Update (SSU) with the Latest Cumulative Update, simplifying the update process. Key enhancements include improvements to Secure Boot, with expanded device target data for new certificates, and security enhancements for Explorer’s search functionality in Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. A fix for Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC) was also implemented, addressing issues with COM objects under certain policy configurations. The Windows System Image Manager received a new warning dialog for confirming the trustworthiness of catalog files, which is important for enterprise environments. Updates for Windows 10 22H2, despite its end-of-life status, included fixes for secure boot issues and improvements for file version history in the Control Panel. An SSU for Windows 11 (KB5077869) was also released to maintain update stability. Microsoft's updates scheduled for March 2026 will address vulnerabilities in components like the Windows App Installer, SQL Server, and Microsoft Office. The Security Update Guide provides detailed information on specific vulnerabilities and affected components.
Winsage
March 4, 2026
Microsoft has released version 0.2 of its Windows App Development CLI (winapp), incorporating several new features based on community feedback. Key updates include first-class support for .NET projects, allowing integration of WinUI 3, WPF, Windows Forms, and .NET console applications. Developers can initialize projects with winapp init, which aligns them with the appropriate Windows SDK version and generates necessary folders. The update also introduces manifest placeholders for easier app packaging, integrates Microsoft Store CLI commands into winapp, and enhances the help and error messaging system for better usability. Additional improvements include new commands for external catalogs and package identity, updates to winapp pack and manifest update-assets, and a Flutter guide with a sample project for using Windows App SDK APIs.
Winsage
February 24, 2026
Users of the classic Outlook desktop email client have reported that the mouse pointer disappears while navigating the application. This issue has led to numerous complaints on social media, with users expressing frustration over workflow disruptions. Microsoft has acknowledged that the cursor vanishes when hovering over the Outlook interface, although email color changes can still be seen. Similar reports have been noted for OneNote and other Microsoft 365 applications. Microsoft recommends that affected users have their administrators open a support case with the Outlook Support Team to submit diagnostic log files for troubleshooting. Temporary workarounds include selecting an email to prompt the pointer to reappear, opening PowerPoint and returning to Outlook, or restarting the computer. Many users are hesitant to switch from the Windows Mail and Calendar apps to the new Outlook app due to concerns about feature parity and design aesthetics.
Winsage
February 17, 2026
Recent developments in Notepad have revealed a vulnerability that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on users' computers through malicious links in Markdown files. This issue arises from the integration of Markdown support, which enables easy formatting of plaintext documents. An attacker could trick a user into clicking a link that launches unverified protocols, leading to the execution of remote files. Microsoft has addressed this vulnerability in the February 2026 security update for Windows. Users can check for this update in the Settings app under "Windows Update." In 2025, Microsoft patched 1,129 bugs in Windows 11, reflecting an increase in vulnerabilities associated with the integration of AI features.
AppWizard
January 30, 2026
Microsoft has expanded its Cross-Device Resume feature on Windows 11 to include support for applications such as Spotify, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. This feature, initially launched in May 2025, allows users to transition seamlessly between devices, particularly between smartphones and PCs, by connecting Android devices through the Link to Windows app. Users can access applications directly from their PC's toolbar and pick up where they left off. The feature requires both devices to be connected to the internet for optimal functionality.
Winsage
January 22, 2026
Microsoft has introduced several innovations in Windows, including Windows 365 Boot, which allows users to access a personalized cloud desktop without a local operating system. Windows 365 Switch enables seamless transitions between local and hosted sessions, making a cloud PC function like a regular desktop. The Windows App supports various services such as Azure Virtual Desktop and Remote Desktop Services, and is compatible with multiple devices, including Macs, iPhones, iPads, other Windows machines, web browsers, Linux PCs, Chromebooks, Android devices, and even Meta Quest VR headsets.
AppWizard
January 21, 2026
Google Pixel testers in the Android 16 QPR3 beta are experiencing crashes with Microsoft apps, including the Windows app and Outlook, despite a fix mentioned in the QPR3 Beta 2 changelog. Users on platforms like Reddit report ongoing issues, with some stating that the Microsoft Teams crashing issue persists after installing the new beta. Pixel 7 series users have also reported similar complaints, and while some users experience smooth operation of their Microsoft apps, many continue to face disruptions. Google's recent update aimed to resolve these crashes but has not fully alleviated the problems. The beta version introduced new features, including an "Intrusion" protection mechanism and GPU fixes for the Pixel 10 series.
Winsage
January 20, 2026
Microsoft released the January Patch Tuesday update on January 13, 2026, addressing over 110 security vulnerabilities. The update introduced bugs affecting Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows Server. The first issue involves authentication failures when connecting to a Cloud PC via Remote Desktop, primarily affecting Windows 11 25H2, Windows 10 22H2 ESU, and Windows Server 2025. The second issue affects systems with Secure Launch enabled, causing unexpected restarts instead of shutting down or entering hibernation mode, specifically impacting Windows 11 23H2. Microsoft has released emergency patches for the affected versions, which include: - Windows 11, versions 25H2 and 24H2 (KB5077744) - Windows 11, version 23H2 (KB5077797) - Windows 10, version 22H2 ESU and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 (KB5077796) - Windows Server 2025 (KB5077793) - Windows Server 2022 (KB5077800) - Windows Server 2019 and Enterprise LTSC 2019 (KB5077795)
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