In this week’s Microsoft Weekly, we delve into a variety of updates that enhance user experience across Microsoft’s platforms. Notably, Microsoft Edge has undergone significant performance improvements, while alternatives to File Explorer for Windows 10 and 11 are emerging as impressive contenders. Additionally, the support for Windows 95 has officially come to an end in a widely-used application, alongside fresh preview builds for Windows 11 and enticing deals for users.
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.
For those equipped with a Copilot+ PC, the updated AI Hub is now available, showcasing a range of AI-powered experiences such as Windows Studio Effects, Live Captions, and Paint Cocreator. This dedicated storage page is currently accessible to customers in the United States and select other countries.
This week’s Windows 10 and 11 updates are relatively modest, but Paul Hil has provided a helpful guide on creating a bootable Windows USB device using a Linux system, which could be beneficial for many users.
Windows Insider Program
Microsoft has released several updates for testing within the Windows Insider Program:
| Windows 11 | Windows 10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Canary Channel | – | Not Applicable |
| Dev Channel | 26120.3291 | Not Applicable |
| Beta Channel | 22635.4950 | Not Applicable |
| Release Preview Channel | 26100.3321 | – |
Alongside these builds, a new update for the Snipping Tool app has been introduced, featuring a cropping tool that simplifies the process of editing screen recordings directly within the app, eliminating the need to switch between different applications.
Enthusiasts have also dissected the latest Windows 11 preview builds, uncovering hints of a new file migration app designed to facilitate file transfers between PCs without relying on third-party solutions. While no official announcements have been made, early UI reconstructions are already generating buzz.
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.
In a recent development, Microsoft clarified that the previously rumored feature to keep Microsoft Accounts always signed in will not be implemented at this time, as the support document was published prematurely. While the change is still anticipated, a timeline remains uncertain.
Microsoft Edge has seen several updates this week. Version 132, released in January, has enhanced the user interface with WebUI 2.0, resulting in notable performance gains, particularly on lower-end devices. Future updates are expected to extend these enhancements throughout the browser.
Additionally, a new feature update on the Dev Channel, version 135, is now available for testing, addressing various stability issues that previously caused crashes.
In the realm of security, users in the Stable Channel received an important update that patched several high-severity vulnerabilities. Furthermore, Microsoft has revamped the Edge Add-ons website, making it easier for users to discover and download extensions.
Meanwhile, Mozilla has rolled out a minor bug-fixing update for Firefox 135, addressing issues with drop-down menus and scrolling bugs. Notably, Firefox 115 ESR will continue to receive support on older Windows versions for an additional six months.
In a significant shift, Finalwire’s latest AIDA64 release has dropped support for Windows 95, 98, and Me, while introducing compatibility for AMD’s upcoming graphics cards.
Battery Flyout, a useful tool for monitoring device batteries, has also received an update, allowing users to generate detailed battery reports.
For those seeking alternatives to Windows 11’s File Explorer, File Pilot has emerged as a promising option. This lightweight file manager, currently in beta, boasts impressive performance and a plethora of features, all for free during its trial phase.
Reviews are in
Here is hardware and software we reviewed this week.
This week, Robbie Khan provided an insightful review of the Ducky One X, the world’s first inductive switch keyboard designed for both typing and gaming. While the keyboard has garnered praise, it also comes with a few drawbacks that potential buyers should consider before making a 9 investment.
On the gaming side
Learn about upcoming game releases, Xbox rumors, new hardware, software updates, freebies, deals, discounts, and more.
Microsoft has announced an exciting lineup of games for Xbox and PC Game Pass subscribers, set to launch in the latter half of February 2025. Titles such as Avowed, EA Sports F1 24, Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, and Watch Dogs: Legion will soon be available, although some games will be leaving the service, so users are encouraged to check the full list.
In addition, Rare has unveiled Season 15 for Sea of Thieves, introducing thrilling new content, including ancient megalodons with extraordinary abilities and new wildlife. This update became available on February 20 across PC, Xbox consoles, and PlayStation 5.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle has also received a substantial update, adding support for DLSS 4 and AMD’s frame-generation technology, along with a comprehensive list of gameplay and story fixes.
Rockstar is preparing to deliver the long-awaited upgrade for GTA V on PC, set to launch on March 4. This update will bring a host of enhancements, including new vehicles, improved career tracking, and graphical updates, along with support for FSR 3 and DLSS 3.
In a noteworthy software update, Xbox consoles can now accommodate external hard drives larger than 16TB, allowing users to connect massive storage solutions like the discounted WD Red Pro 24TB NAS HDD.
The GeForce NOW streaming service has also expanded its library, adding new titles such as Avowed, Lost Records, Warhammer: Rogue Trader, HUMANITY, and more, enhancing the cloud gaming experience.
Deals and Freebies
This week’s Weekend PC Game Deals feature several giveaways from the Epic Games Store, alongside a variety of discounts across platforms like Steam and Humble Bundle, providing gamers with ample opportunities to save.
As always, we encourage readers to explore the latest deals and updates, as there may be something that piques your interest.
