A few days ago, old builds of Windows 11 from the fs_dev6_flt branch found their path to the Internet. The images have been created April and May 2021, that is, a couple of months before the official announcement of the operating system.
Google Drive will stop working on Windows 8.1/8 in August 2023
Google's cloud storage client is terminating support of Windows 8.1 and its predecessor, Windows 8. The company encourages users to upgrade the operating system to a newer version.
Windows 11 Beta Build 22631.1835 improves Narrator and networking
Microsoft has released new preview builds of Windows 11 (version 22H2) 22621.1835 and 22631.1835 (KB5027305) to members of the Windows Insider Program on the Beta channel. Build 22631.1835 comes with new features, while its counterpart has those features disabled by default.
Hidden features in Windows 11 Build 23475 and how to enable them
Windows 11 Build 23475 has been released out to Dev channel insiders last night. Traditionally, it includes a number of features that Microsoft has made available to select users. There are also hidden features that aren't visible to anyone by default. Here are the ViVeTool commands you can use to enable them.
Microsoft Store update makes it easier to install apps and games from search
For Insiders running the latest Canary and Dev channel builds, Microsoft has made available a new Store app version. Microsoft Store 2305.1401.x.x makes the ability to install apps and games from search available to wider audience. Additionally, the updated Store sports new designs for game and movie cards.
Microsoft released Windows 11 Build 23475 (Dev) and Build 25387 (Canary)
The Redmond software firm has issued two new builds to Insiders in the Dev and Canary channel. The latter have received Build 25387, but the official announcement doesn't mention a single change. Most likely there are no significant changes and new features in this build. Microsoft do not publish lists of fixes and known bugs for the Canary channel. As for the Dev channel, there are a new address bar in File Explorer, Dynamic Lighting, Unicode Emoji 15, and much more.
Bing prevented users from downloading Google Chrome
Instead of showing a link to Chrome's website, Bing was welcoming users with "AI-generated" fake information. Fortunately, this behavior was disabled after users started accusing Microsoft of dishonest search results.
Firefox 114 is out with DNS over HTTPS improvements
Mozilla has released Firefox 114 and Firefox ESR 102.12.0. While the release is mostly focused on fixes and security improvements, it also includes several changes to DNS over HTTPS. DoH encrypts DNS queries, which can improve privacy and security for users. Additionally, Firefox 114 includes a number of accessibility improvements, such as better support for screen readers and improved keyboard navigation.
Windows Subsystem for Android now supports Windows file sharing
Microsoft has released a new version of Windows Subsystem for Android for Windows 11 (2305.40000.2.0). It now allows accessing Windows folders from Android apps if the user grants the permissions. For example, you can access the "Pictures" directory to edit your photos in your favorite editor on Android.
Microsoft plans to secure Edge by enabling Balanced Enhanced security mode by default
Microsoft plans to secure their browser in an advanced way. By default, it will have the Balanced option in the Enhanced secure mode enabled. This change will apply to Windows, x64 macOS, x64 Linux, and ARM64 systems, and it can be reverted via a Group Policy.
