Google has released Chrome 116, a new version of the world's most popular web browser. The new version is part of the 4 week release schedule. For those who need more time to update, the Extended Stable branch is supported separately, followed by 8 weeks. The next release of Chrome 117 is scheduled for September 12th.
Xbox has introduced a new system of bans based on strikes
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.
YouTube Music introduces Samples, a TikTok like feed
The YouTube Music app has received an update that introduces a new vertical Samples feed. This feed, located in a new tab at the bottom of the app alongside the home feed and library, allows users to quickly discover new music.
Windows 11 Build 25931 (Canary) is rolling out to Insiders with ISO images
Microsoft is releasing Windows 11 Build 25931 to Insiders in the Canary channel. It includes several new features ported from Dev channel builds. The new features include a new procedure of domain controller detection, more apps that you can easily uninstall, an improved Details pane in File Explorer, and more. Finally, ISO images for this build are also available, so you clean install it on demand.
TweetDeck has officially become a paid service
TweetDeck has officially transitioned into a paid service. Following its rebranding as XPro, users now require a X Premium (formerly Blue) subscription to access it.
Windows 11 Photos app now supports Windows 10
Windows 11 comes with a newer version of the Photos app that offers a number of features that its predecessor doesn't have. Since very beginning, it was exclusively available to Windows 11, but something has changed. Its latest version can now be directly installed on Windows 10 without modifications.
The updated Backup app is coming to Windows 10
Microsoft is planning to introduce a new "Windows Backup" app to Windows 10. It is the same app that has been earlier announced for Windows 11, which now works on Release Preview versions of Windows 10. Though there are some limitations.
Windows PowerToys are getting a revamped home page
Microsoft is currently working on an updated home page for PowerToys, a set of utilities that add extra features to the OS. The goal is to provide users with a more advanced system for launching PowerToys for the first time or working with it after an update. The updated home page will offer clearer and richer settings for basic PowerToys apps.
Microsoft Office to get a new theme along with new font in September
In the coming month, Microsoft Office applications will receive updates to their themes, introducing new color schemes, styles, and outlines. Additionally, the default font will be changed from Calibri to Aptos (previously known as Bierstadt). This marks the first change in default font since Office 2007.
YouTube now shows an anti-ad block screen with a Premium promotion timer
YouTube is currently testing a new version of warnings for free users, which includes a timer and prompts to upgrade to YouTube Premium. When the pop-up appears, a timer is displayed in the upper right corner, lasting for 30 to 60 seconds. The window highlights the benefits of a Premium subscription and offers options to "Allow YouTube ads" or "Try YouTube Premium."
