Earlier this week, Microsoft rolled out a new feature update for Windows 11 named the 2023 Update (23H2). Users can already install this update via Windows Update or the Update Assistant tool. Additionally, official ISO images have been made available for a fresh, clean installation of the operating system.
Windows 11 Build 22635.2700 (Beta) fixes desktop icon shadows
Microsoft today released Windows 11 Build 22635.2700 to Insiders in the Beta channel. It doesn't contain many changes, but fixes an annoying bug. The desktop shadows option is now working properly.
Google is blocking YouTube for more ad blocker users
YouTube is stepping up its efforts to combat ad blockers. More users are now reporting issues with video playback when using AdBlock or similar browser extensions. When detecting an ad blocker, the platform now opens a warning message which gives users the option to disable the blocker, whitelist YouTube, or subscribe to YouTube Premium.
Windows 11 Build 25987 (Canary) improves OOBE for offline setup
Windows 11 Build 25987 is now available in the Canary insider channel. The changes include a new version of the Store app with a dialog asking for location for installing games, an “Install drivers” button in OOBE that appears when the device is offline. It also removes the Movies & TV app. Finally, Explorer can now show metadata for PNGs, and the Delivery Optimization page in Settings is of the Fluent Design style now.
Windows 11 Build 23580 (Dev) enables Copilot for local accounts
Here's a new Dev channel release, Windows 11 Build 23580. It updates Microsoft Store, enables Copilot for local accounts, and improves nearby share.
On December 31, Microsoft will close the Windows Insider MVP program
Being in process of internal restructuring and team optimization, Microsoft has made the decision to discontinue the Windows Insider MVP program, effective December 31, 2023.
Microsoft has officially released Windows 11 2023 Update, version 23H2
Microsoft has released the latest Windows 11 update, known as the 2023 Update or version 23H2. This update brings an ton of new features and changes that were initially planned for a major feature update code named "Sun Valley 3".
Windows 11 23H2 has become available for download
Microsoft has finally published the ISO images for Windows 11 version 23H2. The file contains Build 22631.2428. It is a matter of hours now for the company to officially launch it. So, everyone can download the latest version of Windows 11.
PowerToys 0.75 released with Dashboard and cool Environment Variable editor
PowerToys 0.75 stable is available for download. It comes with a new Dashboard that allows you to quickly enable or disable this or that tool. Another great addition is Environment Variable editor that supports profiles. The latter allows you to switch between variable sets on the fly.
A petition asks Microsoft to extend support for Windows 10
The Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has recently submitted a petition to Microsoft urging them to extend support for Windows 10. Currently, it is estimated that there are around 400 million PCs worldwide, out of a total of 1 billion, that are unable to run Windows 11 due to strict system requirements of the latter. These users will now face the dilemma of having to throw away their PCs and purchase new ones since they will not be able to upgrade to Windows 11 in 2025 when Windows 10 will no longer be supported or updated.