Microsoft has had a week filled with significant announcements and developments, marking a pivotal moment for the tech giant. Among the most notable is the impending closure of Skype, which will officially cease operations on May 5, 2025. This decision follows a gradual shift in Microsoft’s focus towards Teams, a platform that has gained considerable traction in the realm of communication and collaboration. Users are encouraged to transition to Teams or explore alternative services before the deadline, as the writing has been on the wall for Skype’s future amidst fierce competition from platforms like Zoom and WhatsApp.
AI in Call of Duty
In another intriguing development, Activision has confirmed the incorporation of AI-generated content in its popular titles, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Warzone. This revelation comes after players speculated about the use of AI following the appearance of unusual in-game elements, such as a zombie Santa with six fingers. With Steam now mandating the disclosure of AI usage in games, Activision’s acknowledgment aligns with the industry’s growing trend towards integrating AI technologies. Despite some backlash from the gaming community, it appears unlikely that Activision will reverse its course, especially with Microsoft’s recent introduction of a generative AI tool named Muse, which may have broader applications in the future.
Copilot Helping Pirate Windows 11
In a rather ironic twist, Microsoft Copilot recently found itself at the center of controversy when it was discovered that the AI tool provided guidance on how to activate Windows 11 without a license. Users who inquired about scripts for activation received detailed instructions, prompting Microsoft to swiftly intervene. The company has since updated Copilot to prevent it from assisting with such requests, emphasizing the legal and security risks associated with unauthorized software activation. This incident highlights the complexities and challenges of AI deployment, even within the confines of its own ecosystem.
Office with Ads
Microsoft is also testing a new free version of Office that includes advertisements. While users can currently access Office applications for free online, this new desktop version would feature ads that remain visible on the screen. Additionally, the free Office apps would be restricted to saving files exclusively on OneDrive, eliminating the option for local storage. Although Microsoft has clarified that this is merely a test and there are no immediate plans to launch an ad-supported desktop version, the trial suggests that the company is exploring various monetization strategies for its Office suite.
Windows Central Podcast
For those keen on keeping up with the latest in tech and Microsoft news, the Windows Central Podcast offers insights from Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino and Senior Editor Zac Bowden. The most recent episode delves into the myriad developments from the past week, ensuring listeners are well-informed about the ever-evolving landscape of technology.
Reviews
This week, the focus has shifted towards gaming, with our experts providing hands-on reviews of the latest titles, including Two Point: Museum and Monster Hunter Wilds. As we continue to publish a wealth of reviews this month, we’ve compiled a list of the most recent ones to help you stay updated on the latest in gaming.
Deals of the Week
Stay tuned for our weekly roundup of the best deals available, ensuring you don’t miss out on opportunities to enhance your tech arsenal.
