Category: Software

Last week, Microsoft unveiled an updated Xbox Game Pass service with new plans and benefits. At the same time, the company decided to increase the price of its flagship Xbox Game Pass Ultimate plan by 50% - from $20 to $30 per month. So many subscribers were unhappy with such a significant price increase, and many began canceling their Xbox Game Pass subscriptions altogether.

Google has introduced a new application for Windows through its Search Labs initiative. The tool enables users to search across web content, local files, Google Drive, and installed programs using a single keyboard shortcut: Alt + Space

Microsoft announced that individual developers can now sign up and publish their apps to the store for free. Previously, this required a one-time fee and a credit card, which could be a barrier for some developers. The company believes that this change will make the Microsoft Store platform more accessible to developers around the world.

Microsoft has announced a new version of its integrated development environment, Visual Studio 2026. It brings with it deep integration of artificial intelligence into workflows, significant performance improvements, and a new user interface.

Microsoft will soon cease support for Outlook Lite, its lightweight mobile email application. The process will start on October 6, 2025. From that date, the company will block all new installations of the app. Current users may retain access temporarily, though Microsoft has not specified an end date for full discontinuation.

Microsoft has introduced its first in-house (internally developed) artificial intelligence models: MAI-Voice-1 and MAI-1-preview. The release marks a strategic step in the company’s effort to strengthen its position in the global AI landscape. Mustafa Suleiman, head of Microsoft AI, explained the importance of maintaining independent expertise in developing advanced AI systems.

Microsoft has released PowerToys version 0.94. It finally add a search box to the main settings page. Besides, it comes with an ability to detect keyboard shortcut conflicts, and a new way to move the mouse cursor.

Microsoft has extended Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) access to users with Xbox Game Pass Core and Standard subscriptions. Previously, this feature was exclusive to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Subscribers can now stream games included in their plan and select purchased titles that support cloud streaming. The rollout is currently limited to a group of Xbox Insiders participating in the testing phase.

Microsoft announces support for Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio on Windows 11. The update enables high-quality stereo sound during voice calls and in-game chat when using compatible Bluetooth LE Audio devices. To do this, the system will feature "super wideband stereo," which is based on the Bluetooth LE Audio standard.

At Gamescom 2025, Microsoft introduced a new technology - Advanced Shader Delivery. The feature targets long initial loading times and in-game performance interruptions in PC and portable gaming. It will launch with the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X devices on October 16.