Category: Software

A great user interface update is coming to PowerToys Run, the module that allows you to launch apps, to search for local files and online, work with Registry keys and so on. In the near future, it will get a better look powered by the Acrylic effect on Windows 11.

In the near future, Microsoft will stop distributing third-party printer drivers through Windows Update. This decision was made due to the introduction of native support for Mopria compatible printer drivers in Windows 10 21H2, which can be used with any USB or Ethernet connected printers. The Microsoft IPP Class Driver offers basic printing functionality without requiring additional software installation.

Some users of OneDrive have recently received an email notifying them about upcoming changes to their cloud storage policy. Starting from October 16, 2023, photo albums will be counted separately against the storage quota.

The latest release of PowerToys (v0.73)  introduces a new tool called Crop and Lock, which allows creating interactive mini-windows. You can crop application windows to display only the specific portion they need on their desktop.

Microsoft is developing a new feature that will allow Xbox users to automatically upload their screenshots and clips to the OneDrive cloud storage. The feature has been tested by Xbox Insiders participating in Alpha and Alpha Skip-Ahead. The option will allow Microsoft console owners to sync new clips to OneDrive and download existing videos selectively.

Google Workspace has introduced Duet AI assistant to all its apps, including Gmail, Drive, Slides, Docs, and more. In the near future, the assistant will have new useful features. It will be able to write notes during the meeting and even “attend” meetings in Meet instead of the user.

Microsoft is gradually releasing plugin support for its Bing Chat bot. Using plugins, users can compare prices of products from different online stores located in the US, ask for recipes, book restaurants, flights, and much more.

Bing Chat is now available for all desktop users of Google's Chrome browser, according to Microsoft. The company has been testing the AI solution in third-party browsers over the past two months.

Dropbox is discontinuing unlimited storage on its business-focused Advanced plan. It has been discovered that some users were utilizing the plan for resource-intensive activities like cryptocurrency mining. As a result, the 3-license Advanced plan will now offer a total of 15 TB of pooled storage, with each additional license adding 5 TB of disk space.

Microsoft has announced a new system of punishments for Xbox players who violate the rules of conduct on the platform. Xbox Enforcement Strike will issue warnings to players for various types of inappropriate activity, such as foul language, cheating, harassment, bullying, or hate speech.