This week’s news recap brings a wealth of updates and developments from the world of Microsoft, particularly focusing on Windows 11 and its ecosystem. With significant enhancements, app rejections, and exciting changes in gaming, there’s much to explore.
Windows 11 and Windows 10
In the realm of Microsoft’s operating systems, July 2025 has ushered in a series of non-security updates for both Windows 10 and 11. Windows 10 users can now access KB5062649, while Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2 have received KB5062663, addressing various issues related to file systems, input, networking, and printing. However, the most notable update comes with Windows 11 version 24H2, featuring KB5062660, which introduces a suite of AI-powered functionalities, improvements in Settings, and a redesigned Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) that includes Quick Machine Recovery.
In a surprising turn, several companies, including Brave and AdGuard, have opted to block Windows Recall, a key AI feature of Windows 11, citing concerns over privacy and the unsettling nature of the tool. This trend raises questions about the future of AI integration in operating systems.
Microsoft is also developing a new application designed to facilitate the transition from older computers to newer models. This tool promises to streamline the transfer of settings and files, enhancing user experience during upgrades. Additionally, a comprehensive guide has been published detailing the end of support for Windows 10, which is set for October 14, 2025. This guide is particularly useful for those contemplating a switch to Linux, as it includes tools for transferring essential data.
Another informative piece released this week discusses how to disable reserved storage, allowing users to reclaim valuable space on their devices. Furthermore, an exploration of Windows Sandbox highlights its underrated capabilities, alongside a retrospective on ten Windows 10 features that failed to gain traction.
Windows Insider Program
This week, the Windows Insider Program saw the release of Build 27909 in the Canary Channel, which primarily focuses on minor fixes. Unfortunately, no new updates were rolled out in the Dev, Beta, or Release Preview Channels.
Among the recent preview builds, a promising audio-sharing feature has been discovered, enabling users to share audio across multiple devices through Quick Settings. While Microsoft has yet to officially announce this feature, anticipation is building for its release.
Additionally, a new system for detecting performance slowdowns has been introduced in the latest preview builds, allowing Microsoft to gather diagnostic data to enhance system performance. For users of Phone Link with Android smartphones, updates to the Link to Windows app now include remote control functionalities, a revamped user interface, and an improved onboarding experience.
Lastly, Microsoft is testing a redesigned news feed within Windows Widgets, integrating Copilot Discover to replace the traditional MSN feed, along with a new feature that enhances voice conversations with visual expressions.
Updates are available
This section highlights the latest software and firmware updates from Microsoft and third-party sources, aimed at delivering new features, security enhancements, and improvements.
Microsoft has introduced a new addition to its Surface lineup: the Surface Laptop 7, now equipped with Intel’s Core Ultra 200 Series processors and optional 5G connectivity. This innovation includes a sophisticated “dynamic antenna system” designed to optimize reception through strategically placed antennas.
In a concerning development, Microsoft disclosed that hackers have exploited an unpatched vulnerability in SharePoint, which has even impacted the US nuclear weapons department. The company has promptly provided guidance and fixes to address this security breach.
Files, a popular file manager for Windows 10 and 11, has received a significant preview update featuring a reworked address bar, now known as the Omnibar, which merges the address and search functionalities for a more intuitive user experience.
Meta is transitioning the WhatsApp client on Windows from a Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app to a progressive web app, currently available in beta on the Microsoft Store. Meanwhile, Firefox has rolled out version 141.0, introducing AI-powered tab groups and other enhancements, while Microsoft Edge has received security fixes and contextual capabilities in the Business Chat work tab.
Reviews are in
This week’s reviews feature the GameSir G7 Pro, an Xbox-licensed controller praised for its TMR sticks and premium materials, alongside the OXS Storm A2, a wireless gaming headset equipped with hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
On the gaming side
In gaming news, Microsoft is testing a new cross-device play history feature for Xbox consoles and PCs, allowing players to seamlessly transition between platforms. Additionally, the company has reversed its decision to price Xbox games at , a move welcomed by gamers ahead of the launch of The Outer Worlds 2.
EA has unveiled the next installment in the Battlefield series, showcasing a major global conflict in its first trailer, featuring a rogue mercenary group named Pax Armata.
Nvidia has also announced new titles for its GeForce NOW cloud streaming service, including Abiotic Factor and WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers, with the caveat that players must own these games to access them via the service.
Deals and freebies
This week’s Weekend PC Game Deals feature various discounts across multiple platforms, including a free offering from the Epic Games Store: Legion TD 2.
Great deals to check
As always, a variety of deals on hardware and software are available this week, providing opportunities for users to find something that meets their needs.
