Galen Hunt, managing director of Microsoft Azure Sphere and former head of the operating systems development group at Microsoft Research, has unveiled a new research project within Microsoft's CoreAI division. The initiative combines artificial intelligence with traditional algorithms to automate the conversion of Microsoft's extensive C and C++ codebases into Rust.
Microsoft Discontinued Activation By Phone for Windows and other Products
Microsoft has discontinued phone-based activation for Windows and all its software products. Users who attempt to call the traditional activation number now hear an automated message directing them to visit http://aka.ms/aoh to complete activation online. This change appears recent, as phone activation for Windows 11 remained functional just a few months ago. This is really the end of an era.
Windows 11 now allows to monitor AI agents right from the taskbar
The recently released Windows 11 Insider build, 26220.7523 (Dev and Beta channels) includes a new feature. There is now a convenient way to interact with AI agents in the operating system. Users can track task progress without interrupting their current work, right from the taskbar.
Windows 11 Insider Preview builds will resume in 2026
The Windows Insider team confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that Windows 11 Insider build 26220.7523 for the Dev and Beta channels is the last for the year. The company is pausing the release of new test builds for the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Firefox is getting an AI kill switch to remove all AI traces from the browser
Anthony Enzor-DeMeo, the new Chief Executive Officer of Mozilla Corporation, has confirmed that Firefox will maintain full user control over artificial intelligence functionality. The browser will include the ability to disable all AI features, with this capability scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2026.
Windows 11 Insiders Can Now Try Copilot with Text Editing
Microsoft has released a new version of the Copilot app for Windows (1.25121.60.0 and later), which includes a text editing feature. It allows you to use artificial intelligence to change text in real time.
Windows 11 Build 26220.7523 Released to Dev and Beta Channels
Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7523 (KB5072043) to the Dev and Beta Channels. Both channels currently receive identical builds for Windows 11, version 25H2. Insiders in the Dev Channel may switch to the Beta Channel while this alignment continues. The switch window will close once the Dev Channel advances to a higher build number, which may reduce stability.
Satya Nadella Performs Leadership Shifts at Microsoft to Compete in the AI Race
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has reaffirmed artificial intelligence as central to the company’s future. In an internal memo obtained by Business Insider, Nadella urged executives to accelerate efforts and operate with greater focus, aiming to concentrate authority among AI leaders and redefine product development and funding strategies.
Steve Ballmer Hosted Windows 1.0 Team for 40th Anniversary Gala
Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer hosted a gala reception for the Windows 1.0 development team at his Bellevue office. The event connected with the 40th anniversary of the operating system’s release and featured an evening of reflection on the foundational era of the personal computing industry.
Microsoft Brings WebView2 to Entra ID App Sign-In
Microsoft has introduced a significant update to the Entra ID application sign-in experience through the Web Account Manager (WAM). Starting with KB5072033 (OS Builds 26200.7462 and 26100.7462) or later, users can now enable WebView2, a Chromium-based web control, to authenticate within applications.
