In this month’s Microsoft Weekly, we delve into a variety of updates and developments from the tech giant, including the latest Patch Tuesday updates, new preview builds, and notable changes in the Insider Channel, along with gaming news and app updates.
Windows 11 and 10
Here we discuss the latest happenings surrounding Microsoft’s operating systems, focusing on both the Stable channel and preview builds. Expect insights into new features, removed functionalities, bugs, and intriguing discoveries, with a nod to older versions still in support.
November 2024’s Patch Tuesday updates have rolled out, bringing essential updates for both Windows 11 and Windows 10. Windows 11 users can now access KB5046617 and KB5046633, while Windows 10 users receive KB5046613, KB5046615, KB5046612, and KB5046665, which even includes an update for Windows Holographic. These updates not only address security vulnerabilities but also resolve app crashes on Windows 10 and issues with the Task Manager on Windows 11. However, some users have reported confusion, with Windows Update erroneously flagging their systems as out of support.
In a proactive move, Microsoft has introduced new group policies aimed at preventing problematic auto-upgrades, particularly for Windows Server 2022 and 2019, which were at risk of upgrading to Windows Server 2025 without user consent.
Looking ahead, Microsoft has announced that both Windows 10 and 11 will experience a reduction in updates come December 2024, as the company plans to skip the non-security updates during the holiday season.
Additionally, official Windows 11 ISO files for ARM devices have been released, expanding accessibility for users on those platforms.
On the app front, the Microsoft Store is undergoing changes, notably the removal of instant games from the Arcade tab effective November 14, 2024. However, users can look forward to a selection of Android games, thanks to a partnership with Tencent, which aims to bring thousands of mobile titles to Windows 11 users in China.
Despite the modernization efforts in Windows 11, remnants of legacy code persist. Users can still access the old Action Center from Windows 10 by making a simple registry tweak, and a small tool allows the revival of the classic File Explorer.
Windows Insider Program
This section highlights the latest releases for testing within the Windows Insider Program.
Recently, Microsoft introduced a new “Edit with Paint” context menu option in the latest Paint update for Windows Insiders. For those who prefer the previous setup, a guide is available to disable this new feature. Other enhancements from the Paint update are now accessible to a broader audience of insiders.
Upcoming changes for Windows 11 include a new shortcut for triggering OCR in the Snipping Tool, a “Windows Intelligence” section in the Settings app, and updates to the default app experience, along with a new tab dedicated to monitoring energy consumption. These features are not yet public, so anticipation builds for their announcement in future preview builds.
In a less favorable turn, Windows 10’s Beta Channel has been discontinued just five months after its revival. Microsoft confirmed that build 19045.5194 will be the final update for Beta insiders, who will be transitioned to the Release Preview Channel. Given that Windows 10 is nearing its end of life in less than a year, this decision aligns with expectations.
Updates are available
This section details software, firmware, and other significant updates from Microsoft and third parties, encompassing new features, security fixes, and improvements.
Microsoft has reintroduced the MSN brand with a fresh logo, replacing Microsoft Start. This change will soon be reflected in mobile applications as well.
Meanwhile, Microsoft Edge finds itself in the spotlight once again, as it has been observed auto-starting on systems with Chrome, prompting users to transfer data to Edge. The company has acknowledged this behavior, framing it as a choice for users to import data from other browsers.
This week’s browser updates include Firefox 132.0.2, which addresses video streaming errors and duplicate notifications, while Microsoft Edge has been updated to version 131, featuring Sidebar improvements and other enhancements. The Dev variant of Edge has also seen an update to version 132.0.2945.0.
Noteworthy driver updates include:
- Intel’s 32.0.101.6297 non-WHQL, optimized for Farming Simulator 25, Planet Coaster 2, and Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake.
- Nvidia’s 566.14 WHQL, optimized for S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2: Heart of Chornobyl and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.
Nvidia has also announced that the new Nvidia App has exited beta, although it will not yet replace the existing Control Panel and GeForce Experience app, serving instead as an optional component in future driver updates.
Reviews are in
This section summarizes recent software and hardware reviews published on Neowin.
Steven Parker provided a review of the GEEKOM “AI-Enhanced” AE8 mini PC, highlighting its modern design, advanced hardware, dedicated NPU, USB4 ports, and a few minor quirks that may not deter potential buyers.
On the gaming side
Explore news on upcoming game releases, Xbox rumors, new hardware, software updates, and special offers.
The highly anticipated Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is nearing its release, with MachineGames teasing the title through a new gameplay video. It is set to launch on December 9, with early access available on December 6. In an exciting collaboration, Xbox and IHOP have introduced exclusive Indiana Jones-themed menus and prizes.
Another major title on the horizon is S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2: Heart of Chornobyl, with GSC Game World releasing the full system requirements ahead of its launch on November 20. Gamers seeking high-resolution or high-frame-rate experiences will need to ensure their hardware is up to par.
Blizzard recently celebrated the 30th Anniversary of Warcraft by announcing remasters of Warcraft I and Warcraft II, now available for modern hardware with enhanced controls and visuals. Warcraft III also received a remaster, dubbed Reforged 2.0, featuring improved lighting effects and user interface enhancements. Additionally, Mists of Pandaria is set to arrive in World of Warcraft Classic in 2025.
In celebration of Age of Empires II‘s fifth anniversary, Microsoft has unlocked DLC packs for existing owners and Game Pass subscribers, although the game’s price has increased to .99 across all platforms.
As Half-Life 2 marks its 20th anniversary, Nvidia is commemorating the occasion with a giveaway of a custom RTX 4080 SUPER graphics card featuring designs inspired by the game. Meanwhile, Half-Life 2 RTX is available for free until November 18, and interested players can wishlist it on Steam.
The Game Pass library has expanded with the addition of three Spyro games, allowing players to enjoy Spyro the Dragon, Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage!, and Spyro: Year of the Dragon. GeForce NOW has also welcomed new titles, including Farming Simulator 25 and previous Call of Duty games.
Rumors are swirling regarding a potential Xbox handheld console, with Phil Spencer hinting at its possibility, although no immediate plans are in place. For now, Microsoft is focusing on enhancing the gaming experience on existing handheld devices running Windows.
For those considering an Xbox console, the holiday season brings enticing discounts, including a reduction on select Xbox Series X|S consoles and controllers, alongside deals on over a thousand PC and Xbox games.
Lastly, an important software update for Xbox consoles has been released, introducing features such as friend requests, a revamped Home page, and AI search capabilities, along with enhancements to the Xbox Accessories app for trigger calibration and more.
Great deals to check
This section highlights ongoing deals on various hardware and software, offering opportunities for savings and special offers.
The Epic Games Store is currently offering Castlevania Anniversary Collection and Snakebird Complete for free until next Thursday, alongside a variety of other deals featured in this week’s Weekend PC Game Deals.
For further insights and updates, readers can explore past issues of the Microsoft Weekly series. Support for Neowin can be extended by registering for a free member account or opting for a subscription that includes additional benefits and an ad-free experience.
Microsoft Weekly image by mynd_roxycr on Pixabay.
