As Windows 10 approaches its sunset, Microsoft continues to roll out updates, albeit with a few contentious surprises. The latest cumulative update, KB5051974, has stirred the pot once again, particularly with its approach to app installations.
New Outlook App Installation
In a move that has not endeared the company to its user base, Microsoft has opted to automatically install the new Outlook for Windows app as part of this update. While the tech giant views this as a beneficial enhancement, users may not share the same enthusiasm. The new app is prominently featured in the update highlights, with Microsoft stating, “[Mail] New! You now have the new Outlook for Windows app. A new app icon appears in the Apps section on the Start menu, near classic Outlook.” The company reassures IT administrators that there are no changes to settings or defaults, directing them to manage the update accordingly.
Additional Highlights of the Update
Beyond the controversial app installation, Microsoft has outlined several other key highlights that accompany this update:
- [Screen capture] Fixed an issue where the Capture Service and Snipping Tool would stop responding when the Windows logo key+Shift+S combination was pressed multiple times while Narrator was active.
- [Chinese Pinyin input method editor (IME)] Automatic suggestions in the search box for search engines like Baidu will cease, with users needing to use Ctrl+Tab or the chevron button for manual suggestions.
- [Digital/Analog converter (DAC) (known issue)] Resolved issues with USB audio devices, particularly those using USB 1.0 drivers, which previously caused playback interruptions.
- [USB audio device drivers] Fixed the code 10 error message indicating “This device cannot start” when connecting certain external audio management devices.
- [USB cameras] Addressed a problem where devices failed to recognize that the camera was active following the January 2025 security update.
In addition to these highlights, the KB5051974 update brings a plethora of security enhancements and bug fixes. Among the resolved issues are those related to virtual memory, printer failures, and NFC readers that struggled to read UUIDs.
As Microsoft navigates the final months of Windows 10, the company appears committed to delivering updates that, while beneficial in some aspects, may continue to evoke mixed reactions from its user community.
Image credit: Claudiodivizia / Dreamstime.com
