In the latest episode of Microsoft Weekly, a plethora of updates has been unveiled, covering everything from Copilot enhancements to the latest in PowerToys, and even Windows 11 preview builds. The episode also features insightful hardware reviews and practical guides tailored for Chrome users, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Windows 11 and 10
Here we talk about everything happening around Microsoft’s latest operating system in the Stable channel and preview builds: new features, removed features, controversies, bugs, interesting findings, and more. And of course, you may find a word or two about older but still supported versions.
Windows 11 24H2 continues to face challenges, with reports indicating that the operating system is inadvertently throttling performance. Users have noted that upon minimizing applications, Windows 11 enters a power-saving mode that significantly reduces processor clock speeds. However, on a positive note, a long-standing issue—the 0x80131500 Store error—has finally received a fix.
In gaming news, Valve has released the results of the Steam Hardware and Software Survey for February 2025, revealing a shift in preferences among PC gamers. Notably, Windows 10 has reclaimed its position as the most popular operating system on Steam, following a decline in Windows 11’s usage.
Windows Insider Program
This week, Microsoft has rolled out new testing features in the Windows Insider Program:
| Windows 11 | Windows 10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Canary Channel | 27808 | Not Applicable |
| Dev Channel | – | Not Applicable |
| Beta Channel | 22635.5025 | Not Applicable |
| Release Preview Channel | – | – |
In an unexpected announcement, Microsoft has introduced a native Copilot app for both Windows 11 and 10, now available for testing within the Insider program. This app features a XAML-based user interface and introduces several new functionalities, although some features are still pending.
Updates are available
This section covers software, firmware, and other notable updates (released and coming soon) delivering new features, security fixes, improvements, patches, and more from Microsoft and third parties.
This week, PowerToys received a significant update with version 0.89, enhancing existing tools such as Advanced Paste, FancyZones, and Image Resizer. Microsoft is also seeking user feedback on an upcoming redesign of the Keyboard Manager.
On the browser front, Opera has announced the AI Browser Operator, a feature designed to automate tasks based on user commands, set to roll out in a future update. Meanwhile, Microsoft has released Edge 134 in the Stable channel, which includes improved Teams link handling on macOS and various performance enhancements. The Edge Insider program has also seen the release of Edge Dev 135.0.3168.2, featuring an updated menu and bug fixes.
Mozilla has joined the fray with the release of Firefox 136, which introduces long-awaited vertical tabs and hardware-accelerated HEVC video support for Linux users with AMD GPUs.
For Chrome users, there are new guides available, including one on how to enable dark mode across all websites and another on installing uBlock Origin and other Manifest V2-based extensions, which are now disabled by default.
In 2024, Microsoft announced the discontinuation of Publisher, a once-popular application in the Office suite. A new support page has been launched to guide users through the transition and suggest viable alternatives.
Additionally, Microsoft has provided updates regarding OneDrive backup prompts in Office applications and enhancements to shared folders, which are now accessible as links. The company has also upgraded Copilot, enhancing its service to the o3-mini high model, offering users improved AI capabilities at no cost.
Reviews are in
Here is hardware and software we reviewed this week.
This week’s reviews include the Xiaomi 15 smartphone, which impressed with its build quality, fast-charging capabilities, and vibrant display. However, it does have some firmware quirks that potential buyers should consider.
In the realm of graphics cards, the RX 9070 XT from AMD has garnered attention, receiving a perfect score from reviewer Steven Parker for its exceptional ray tracing and AI performance, alongside solid gaming capabilities.
On the gaming side
Learn about upcoming game releases, Xbox rumors, new hardware, software updates, freebies, deals, discounts, and more.
Game Pass subscribers can look forward to an exciting lineup of new titles, including Monster Train, Galacticare, and Enter the Gungeon, which will soon be available across Xbox, PC, and Cloud platforms.
Amazon Prime Gaming is also joining the fray, offering 20 PC games this month, including Saints Row: The Third Remastered and Mafia II: Definitive Edition.
Nvidia’s GeForce NOW service has expanded its library to include titles such as Monster Hunter Wilds and Split Fiction, allowing users to stream games from the cloud, provided they own the titles.
For fans of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series, Microsoft has announced a remake of the third and fourth installments, set to release on July 11 for multiple platforms, including Game Pass on launch day.
Deals and freebies
For those looking to explore new gaming experiences without breaking the bank, this week’s Weekend PC Game Deals article highlights a fresh giveaway from the Epic Games Store, alongside various demos of strategy games and fighters.
Great deals to check
Every week, we cover many deals on different hardware and software. The following discounts are still available, so check them out. You might find something you want or need.
For more insights and updates, readers can explore past issues of the Microsoft Weekly series. Additionally, supporting Neowin is easy with a free member account or an optional subscription for enhanced benefits, including an ad-free experience.
