Microsoft has released a new portion of cumulative updates for all supported operating systems. Such updates do not bring with them drastic changes, as their goal is to close vulnerabilities and improve reliability. In some cases, Microsoft ships with them minor improvements to usability.
Category: Windows 11
Many PCs won’t be able to run Windows 11 24H2 due to a new POPCNT requirement
With Windows 11 24H2 Microsoft is tightening the screws, leaving even more PCs officially incompatible with the OS. A newly discovered change in hardware requirements reveals that core files now require a new CPU instruction, POPCNT. If your hardware doesn't support it, the OS will not boot, and there is no way to bypass this change.
Build 26052 hidden gems: New voice options, updated taskbar thumbnails, and more
The recently released Windows 11 Build 26052 (Dev & Canary) comes with a number of hidden features that aren't mentioned in the release notes, and not exposed anywhere in the UI. One of the new features allows Windows 11 to synthesize your voice and response on your behalf when you are away. Another one reveals new taskbar thumbnails with advanced information about the running apps, and new animations.
Microsoft has officially introduced quick actions for Copilot
Shortly after being discovered by enthusiasts, Microsoft officially introduced Quick Actions for Copilot. They are currently apply to the text content and allow you to perform AI-powered manipulations with the clipboard.
Windows 11 version 24H2 is officially confirmed
Microsoft has announced that the upcoming major update to the Windows operating system, set for the release this fall, will be Windows 11 version 24H2. It won't be Windows 12, as many expected. The announcement is part of the latest Windows 11 Insider release notes for the Build 26052 (Dev and Canary).
Microsoft has added Copilot to Notepad, updated Snipping Tool
Microsoft is rolling out updates for the inbox Snipping Tool and Notepad apps. They will be available to Windows 11 Insiders in the Dev and Canary channels. The Snipping Tool now supports drawing basic shapes, and Notepad has got Copilot integration.
First Windows 11 24H2 build lands in Dev and Canary channels
Microsoft today released the first Insider Preview build from the new "Germanium" branch. Insiders in the Canary Channel will receive Build 26052.1000 while Insiders in the Dev Channel will receive Build 26052.1100 (KB5035384). For the latter, Microsoft is testing servicing, so there is no difference between Build 26052.1000 and Build 26052.1100. The release includes a huge number of changes.
Windows 11 Build 22635.3140 (Beta) comes with a few improvements
Microsoft has released a new preview build of Windows 11 (version 23H2) to Insiders in the Beta channel. Build 22635.3140 (KB5034851) includes improvements for Copilot and Start menu, as noted below.
Microsoft may release Windows 11 Moment 5 this month, on February 27
Microsoft is preparing to release the next set of features for Windows 11, referred as Moment 5 and February 2024 Update. The main focus will be on bringing the operating system into compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Economic Area (EEA). The latter includes Edge removal and Widget news disabling options, along several others.
The Arcade instant games is now available to everyone
Microsoft is rolling out the Arcade feature for Microsoft Store in Windows 11. Formerly known as Instant Games, its allows playing games without the need to download them beforehand.
