In early 2023, Microsoft introduced a new feature to the web version of PowerPoint, allowing users to download and insert videos into presentations. Recently, the company has made further enhancements to this feature by adding support for titles and subtitles for videos.
Fake Russian version of 7-zip in Microsoft Store distributed malware
Researchers at the Chinese security firm QiAnXin identified a malicious installer posing as the Russian version of the 7Zip software available on the official Microsoft App Store. Despite it being uploaded in January 2023, the app was only removed by Microsoft after a series of complaints.
Microsoft confiscates domains used to sell fraudulent Outlook accounts
Microsoft's Digital Crimes Unit has taken control of numerous domains utilized by the Vietnamese criminal gang Storm-1152, which illicitly registered over 750 million counterfeit Outlook accounts and profited millions of dollars from their sale.
Windows 11 Build 23606 (Dev) includes fixes, deprecates Speech Recognition
Windows 11 Build 23606 is now available to Insiders in the Dev channel. It is the first release that deprecates Speech Recognition and prevents you from accessing it. It also includes fixes for File Explorer and input. Finally, it is worth noting that it is the last Dev channel release 2023 - the next one will only come in 2024.
Windows 11 Build 26016 (Canary) introduces Protected Print Mode
Microsoft is releasing Windows 11 Build 26016 to Insiders in the Canary channel. The release is notable for adding a new 'Windows Protected Print Mode' feature, network diagnostic in the tray in the context menu, and small Settings updates.
How to keep Edge open when you close the last tab
If you always wanted to keep Edge running when you close last tab, follow the steps in this guide. Microsoft has added a special option to the browser, so it remains always open. When you close the last tab, it will open a new one instead of exiting.
Mozilla introduced MemoryCache offline AI bot built into Firefox
Mozilla has released an experimental MemoryCache add-on offers a conversational machine learning AI bot. It takes into account the content accessed by the user in the web browser. Also, unlike other AI chat tools, MemoryCache enables personalized communication with the user and utilizes crucial user-specific data to generate responses to queries.
Microsoft introduced School Connection for Microsoft Teams Education
Microsoft has introduced a new feature called School Connection to the Microsoft Teams For Education app on mobile devices. This feature allows parents and guardians to track their children's progress in school.
Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11 and Windows 10, December 12, 2023
Microsoft today released the monthly cumulative updates for all Windows 11/10 systems that are currently supported. These updates mainly concentrate on resolving issues and closing vulnerabilities, but may include some new features earlier available to Insiders. Users can conveniently obtain these updates with the built-in Windows Update option.
Microsoft may offer free access to Xbox Game Pass after you watch ads
According to Microsoft Gaming Chief Financial Officer Tim Stuart, Microsoft is experimenting with a new approach to Xbox Game Pass by offering free access in exchange for viewing ads. Stuart also mentioned that Microsoft is actively seeking to expand Xbox Game Pass to other platforms like PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, although Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has denied these plans.
