According to IDC, in 2020, Windows 10 lost around five market share points to Chromebook. Inexpensive laptops powered by Google's OS also managed to outsold macOS devices for the first time in modern history. Obviously, Windows 10 remains the most popular desktop operating system, but the competition is heating up significantly.
Author: Taras Buria
Taras is here to cover stories about Microsoft and everything around, although sometimes he prefers Apple.
Here are official tips on how to improve Windows updates installation time
Long installation time is one reason why people hate Windows updates. To make this process less annoying, Microsoft has implemented many different changes and improvements. For example, active hours, smaller update packages, the ability to pause Windows Update, and the freedom to choose when to upgrade Windows 10 to the next version. Updating your PC is much less annoying now, yet some people still have a hard time dealing with Windows Update. For these users, Microsoft today shared a few tips on how to improve Windows updates installation time.
Office 2021 is coming to Windows and macOS later this year
Microsoft has officially announced two new versions of the Office 2021 suite for those unwilling to adopt the Microsoft 365 subscription. It will be available later this year for regular consumers and commercial customers (LTSC) on Windows and macOS.
Third-party Themes for Edge showed up in the Add-ons Store
One way to customize your Edge experience is to apply one of many official themes Microsoft has for you in the Add-ons Store. In contrast to Chrome Web Store, there were no third-party themes for Edge. Now things can change. Some users spotted two themes from a third-party developer, Stefan Van Damme, who stands behind the popular extension “Turn off the lights.”
Surface Duo is now available in the UK, France, Germany, and Canada
Those living in the UK, France, Germany, and Canada, can now buy a dual-screen smartphone from Microsoft called Surface Duo. Until now, this rather unorthodox device was available in the US only.
Microsoft is now rolling out February firmware update for Surface Duo
Surface Duo owners noticed that their dual-screen smartphones receive a February firmware update. At the time of writing this article, there is no official word from Microsoft on what is new in this update. Microsoft finally published the official changelog for this update on February 19. The build number is 2121.115.52, and it is tiny – you need only 66 MB to install it.
Your Phone now allows you to change phone settings in the app
Microsoft starts rolling out a fresh update to the Your Phone app that brings additional controls over your smartphone. In addition to the status indicators, which include the battery level, cellular signal strength, and Wi-Fi icons, you can now access Quick Settings directly from the app. Similar to control center apps smartphones have, there are four new toggles above the app's main menu, enabling you to turn on or off Do Not Disturb, Silent mode, or Bluetooth, and launch the default music app.
Outlook for Android is out with new colorful themes
There are some significant changes to Outlook on Android. With the latest update, you can finally change the default Outlook Blue color to alternative options. Microsoft has generously provided users with five fresh colors: violet, pink, orange, red, and green. Also, a new setting allows you to switch between black and white themes. You can find these personalization options under Settings > Appearance.
It is now possible to embed YouTube video in Word for Web
You can now embed YouTube video in Word for Web.
Microsoft’s Word for Web, which is available for all users for free, has got interactive apps support. You can now embed YouTube videos or content from other popular services. All you have to do is copy the shareable link and paste it into a document. Once Word recognizes the link, it automatically transforms it into a video player or other interactive content.
Microsoft Edge now shows ads inside its settings
Microsoft puts lots of effort into making sure you have an excellent browsing user experience. Edge tries to protect your privacy, blocks annoying notifications, offers media autoplay controls, and removes intrusive ads. Unfortunately, Edge is not immune to "native ads." Users now report seeing new banners promoting mobile Edge in their browser settings.
