In Windows 11 preview builds, Microsoft has recently rolled out an update to the Store app. This update introduces a new feature called "Arcade", which allows users to access instant games without the need for downloading them. The "Arcade" tab can be found directly below the "Games" tab in the Microsoft Store app.
Microsoft announced paid Extended Support Updates for Windows 10
In October 2025, Microsoft plans to introduce the Extended Support Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 (paid updates). As you may remember, free support for the operating system ends exactly in 2025. Under this initiative, Microsoft will charge for the release of security updates for Windows 10, that will continue for a period of three years.
Besides installing HP Smart app, Windows 11 also renames your printers
In addition to automatic HP Smart app installation, Windows 11 users again run into another issue, again related to HP. The OS renames their printers to HP Laser M101-M106, regardless of the actual printer brand.
Windows 11 Build 22635.2841 (Beta) allows disabling the news feed in Widgets
Microsoft has officially introduced the option to disable the News feed in Widgets in Windows 11 Build 22635.2841 (Beta). It is released with KB5032286 and also brings with it improvements to Nearby Share and Task Manager.
How to disable News in Widgets on Windows 11
You can finally disable news in the Widgets pane in Windows 11 to make it show only widgets you really need. This is possible due to changes Microsoft made to the OS to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Economic Area (EEA).
Microsoft Copilot is now generally available
Microsoft Copilot, previously known as Bing Chat, has completed its preview phase and is now available to the public. In November, Microsoft announced the rebranding of Bing Chat and Bing Chat Enterprise to Copilot.
Dev Home will soon get Advanced Windows Settings to manage Windows 11 options
Microsoft is about to add an Advanced Windows Settings pane to the Dev Home app for Windows 11 that will be aimed at advanced users and developers. A discussion on about this idea is on GitHub. While Advanced Windows Settings don't offer anything exclusive or extra, the page places all important options in one place, making it faster change them.
Firefox for Android extension store is now live
Mozilla has launched the Firefox for Android add-on website, prior to the public release of the extension support on smartphones. The public rollout is expected to happen on December 14, 2023. Firefox for Android will allow users to install any extension marked “Compatible with Android” on their mobile devices.
Windows 11 and 10 may install the HP Smart app without user consent
Some Windows 11 users experienced that when updating Store apps, the HP Smart application for managing HP printers and other peripheral devices was suddenly installed on their PCs and virtual machines. The OS installs it despite the lack of printers and other HP products. A Microsoft spokesperson said the company is aware of the complaints and is looking into the situation.
The Phone Link app may soon allow using smartphone’s camera for PC video calls
The newest version of the Phone Link app for Android includes bits of code for streaming your phone's camera video to Windows. Apparently, Microsoft will eventually allow you to use your smartphone's optical sensors for video calls on your PC.
