Microsoft has revealed the upcoming open beta testing of the Recall feature for Windows 11. In October of this year, owners of Copilot+ PC devices with Qualcomm ARM processors will be able to try out the new feature. In November, access to the feature will be expanded to systems equipped with the latest Intel and AMD chips.
Author: Sergey Tkachenko
Windows 11 Build 26120.1930 (Dev) adds new Sandbox Preview, settings for Copilot key
Windows 11 Build 26120.1930 (KB5044388) is now coming to Dev channel insiders. Similarly to the Beta channel, some of the new features are coming only to users with the "Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available" setting enabled. Specially, this build improves Unicode fonts, updates the Windows Sandbox Preview client, allows changing what the Copilot key does, and includes several fixes.
Windows 11 Build 22635.4300 (Beta) updates the Clock app with new widgets
Microsoft is releasing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4300 (KB5044386) to the Beta Channel. The update includes several changes that gradually come to Insiders with and without the "Get the latest updates as they are available" in Settings > Windows Update. Here are the details.
What’s new in Windows 11 version 24H2
On October 1, 2024, Microsoft has officially released Windows 11 version 24H2, also known as "2024 Update", to everyone. It is the most AI-focused update for the OS to date, as it brings with it several AI feature previously not seen in any of the Windows versions. It is a huge major release, and not an enablement package like several releases prior to it. Installing 24H2 will cause your device to perform the full build upgrade.
Windows 11 is receiving AI-powered Search, Generative fill and erase, and Super Resolution
Microsoft is bringing AI capabilities to significantly improve Windows Search on its new Copilot Plus PCs. Windows 11's search will now be powered by AI and offers a brand new Click to Do feature. It will also allow users to find images, emails, documents, and videos more easily. These AI features are scheduled to roll out in November.
Microsoft Releases Office 2024 for Consumers, Non-Subscription Version
Microsoft has announced Office 2024 for consumers and small businesses. The release is classic app suite without the subscription requirements. It is a one-time purchase that includes newest versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook for Windows and macOS.
Windows 11 Build 27718 (Canary) officially introduces new widgets for the Clock app
A new Canary channel release, Windows 11 Build 27718, adds two new widgets for the Clock app, Timer and Countdown. These were earlier discovered, but now Microsoft introduces them officially. Besides, there are some quality of life improvements and fixes.
PowerToys 0.85 adds a new New+ tool, a more convenient New menu for Explorer
Microsoft has released a new PowerToys version 0.85. It is notable for including a new 'powertoy', New+. It is a custom implementation of the good old 'New' menu in File Explorer that allows you to create new files based on flexible custom templates.
These are the upgrade blocking issues in Windows 11 24H2
Every time Microsoft releases a new Windows version, there is always a list of issues that prevent your computer from getting the latest OS release. The situation is similar to Windows 11 version 24H2. If your device doesn't see the update, then you may be affected by some of them.
Microsoft discontinues HoloLens 2
Almost a year after the original Hololens was discontinued in December 2024, Microsoft is leaving HoloLens 2 alone in the dark. HoloLens 2 headsets are being discontinued but will continue to receive security and bug fixes until 2027. HoloLens 2 was officially announced on February 24, 2019, at the Mobile World Congress conference in Barcelona.
