News stories tagged with #Microsoft
Microsoft Extends Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 Until 2027
Microsoft has extended the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 by one year, providing support until October 12, 2027. This extension serves as a transition solution for users who have not yet migrated to Windows 11. The program ensures that older systems continue to receive critical security updates despite rising hardware requirements.
Microsoft Bets on Snapdragon: New Surface Line Featuring Copilot+ and OLED Displays Unveiled
Microsoft has updated its popular product lines, the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, with new models powered by the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 processor. These devices are designed for the next generation of 'Copilot+ PCs,' offering significant performance boosts and enhanced AI capabilities. A standout feature is the 3:2 display format, where the Surface Pro even offers optional OLED screens, while both models support modern standards like Wi-Fi 7.
Windows 11 KB5094126: Performance Boosts, Security Updates, and System Stability
The cumulative June update KB5094126 for Windows 11 introduces a series of significant enhancements. It includes new features like a Low Latency Profile to accelerate app launches and expanded hardware integration via Bluetooth LE Audio and Multi-App Camera Support. Furthermore, important security measures are implemented, including stricter validation of desktop.ini files. System stability is also improved by bundling components and reducing fragmented restarts.
25 Years of Xbox: Microsoft Unveils Limited Edition Series X25 with Nostalgic Translucent Design
Microsoft has unveiled the limited-edition 'Xbox Series X25' console to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the original Xbox. The device features a translucent OG Green casing, deliberately evoking nostalgia for early console models. While its design is unique and includes aesthetic enhancements like glowing logos, the Series X25 retains the full hardware power and specifications of the current Xbox Series X. This limited edition is scheduled to become available in select markets in November 2026.
Summer 2026 marks a turning point for the tech industry with Apple announcing its first touchscreen MacBook and autonomous software repair capabilities via iOS 27. Simultaneously, the trend toward extreme battery life continues with the OnePlus Turbo 6X Pro boasting an 8,000 mAh cell and larger batteries upcoming in Samsung's Galaxy Watch 9 lineup. The smartphone market is diversifying from compact devices like the Motorola Edge 2026 to budget-friendly entries in India by OnePlus, while Microsoft adjusts Office pricing and SoftMaker introduces new AI features.
Microsoft Retracts 32 GB RAM Recommendation Following User Backlash
Microsoft recently suggested that 32 GB of RAM is the ideal upgrade for Windows 11 to ensure a 'no worries' experience during multitasking and gaming. While 16 GB remains the baseline, the company noted that modern web frameworks and demanding apps are increasing memory pressure. However, following significant public backlash regarding accessibility and system requirements, Microsoft has since pulled the recommendation.
Project Helix: Microsoft Plans Comprehensive Xbox Pivot and New Hardware
Microsoft is restructuring its gaming division under the 'Xbox' brand and developing a next-generation console codenamed 'Project Helix.' The new strategy aims to create a global ecosystem spanning cloud, mobile, and PC, while reevaluating Game Pass and the approach to exclusive titles. This pivot shifts the company's priority toward daily active users over traditional hardware sales figures.
Xbox Strategy Shift: Microsoft Lowers Game Pass Prices but Removes Call of Duty from Day-One Access
Microsoft is restructuring its Xbox Game Pass model, lowering prices for PC Game Pass and Ultimate while delaying the arrival of new Call of Duty titles by approximately one year. This strategic pivot aims to protect the massive revenue generated by full-price sales of the franchise. Additionally, reports suggest potential further limitations on first-party content and looming job cuts through 2026 due to AI investments.
PlayStation 6: Prices Expected Between $699 and $1,000 Amid Supply Chain and Market Pressures
The upcoming PlayStation 6 is expected to retail between $699 and $1,000, with manufacturing costs estimated at around $760, driven by high memory prices due to AI-related supply shortages. Analysts predict premium pricing for next-gen consoles, including Microsoft’s Project Helix, while Sony may leverage new technologies to reduce costs. Despite potential price cuts, the competitive landscape makes a high-end launch increasingly likely.
Microsoft Prepares Major Windows 11 Improvements: From Offline Login to Faster Updates
Microsoft is preparing major improvements for Windows 11, including removing the mandatory online login, integrating NVMe SSD performance enhancements, and introducing a faster File Explorer and movable taskbar. The updates aim to boost system performance through reduced resource usage and a more responsive interface. These changes are set to begin rolling out in March 2026 via the Insider program and will be gradually released throughout the year, following the temporary withdrawal of a problematic feature update due to widespread installation errors.
Microsoft Responds to Criticism: Windows 11 to Receive Major Improvements and AI Adjustments
Microsoft is responding to widespread criticism of Windows 11 with a major quality offensive by the end of 2026, including abandoning mandatory Microsoft account sign-ins, reducing AI integration, and introducing a movable taskbar. The company is also revising its Copilot strategy and halting automatic app installations due to user backlash. Meanwhile, Microsoft is considering legal action against OpenAI and Amazon over a cloud partnership that may violate an exclusivity agreement.
Windows 11 Update Glitch Affects Samsung Devices, Blocking Access to Drive C
A bug in the February Windows 11 update blocks access to drive C on Samsung devices such as the Galaxy Book 4, with the Samsung Galaxy Connect app identified as the root cause. The app has been temporarily removed from the Microsoft Store. Separately, the March update has caused sign-in issues with Microsoft apps like Teams and OneDrive, prompting an emergency patch from Microsoft.
Microsoft Confirms 'Project Helix' as Next-Gen Xbox with PC Game Support
Microsoft has confirmed the codename 'Project Helix' for its next-generation Xbox, which will support both console and PC games. The device will feature powerful AMD hardware with RDNA 5 graphics and is expected to launch in 2027, though delays are possible due to the DRAM crisis. This marks a shift toward a gaming PC-like console that could signal the end of the traditional Xbox console.
Windows 12: Microsoft's AI Revolution with CorePC Architecture and Subscriptions
Microsoft is preparing for the release of Windows 12, codenamed 'Hudson Valley Next', which marks a radical shift toward AI technologies and subscription models. The new operating system is built on a modular CorePC architecture and requires at least 40 TOPS on a dedicated NPU, potentially forcing users to upgrade their hardware. Designed as a foundational platform for the future PC market, Windows 12 integrates AI agents and hybrid cloud processing to set new industry standards.
Windows 11: New Taskbar Features, Network Test, and AI Integration Coming This Summer
Microsoft plans to make the Windows 11 taskbar movable to all screen edges again in summer, reversing an earlier restriction. The OS also introduces a built-in network speed test accessible via Quick Settings, now available in preview, and integrates new AI features like 'Ask Copilot' in the taskbar and a Copilot button in File Explorer, despite recent company statements distancing from widespread AI. Additionally, some users are experiencing issues downloading ISO files for preview builds due to unexplained IP blocking.