Hello, Windows enthusiasts! Welcome to our deep dive into this week’s Microsoft Weekly roundup—a treasure trove of updates spanning a smoother Windows 11 Start menu experience, revised CPU requirements, and a host of insider previews, security patches, and even a few fun nuggets. Grab your mug of your favorite beverage (coffee, tea, or that new energy drink) and settle in as we break down what these improvements mean for you and your Windows ecosystem.
Stay tuned for more deep dives into Microsoft’s evolving ecosystem right here on WindowsForum.com, your trusted space for all things Windows. Happy updating, and see you in the next thread!
Source: Neowin https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-weekly-fixed-windows-11-start-menu-changes-in-cpu-requirements-and-more/
Windows 11: A Start Menu Makeover
Many of us have longed for a more refined Start menu experience in Windows 11—a nod to the usability of Windows 10 but with a modern twist. Microsoft appears to be heeding user feedback:- New Default Behavior: Soon, you'll have the option for the Start menu to automatically open to a full list of applications. This means no more extra clicking on an “All” button. For those who prefer keeping things as they are, a handy toggle will let you keep pinned apps front and center.
- Community Creativity: Already feeling impatient? Enter the Windhawk mod—a community-driven tweak that revamps the Start menu to mimic a more traditional yet stylish Windows 10 layout, optimized for contemporary visuals. It’s a great bridge for users who crave both familiarity and modern design.
CPU Requirements: The Hardware Shake-Up
In another bold move, Microsoft has revised the supported CPU list for Windows 11 version 24H2:- What’s Changing?: Some Intel chips that were once welcome in the Windows 11 club are now being shown the exit door. Specifically, the update involves removing support for select CPUs from older Intel generations, while simultaneously welcoming fresh SKUs from AMD Ryzen into the fold.
- Implications for Users:
- Upgrade Considerations: If you're running an older Intel processor, you might want to scrutinize the official support list carefully before planning an upgrade or a reinstallation. Microsoft seems intent on ensuring that only the most robust and secure hardware platforms power future Windows 11 installations.
- Performance and Security: Aligning support with newer hardware often means better overall system performance and tighter security measures. These changes reflect an industry-wide trend where software and hardware evolve in tandem to tackle modern challenges—including those pesky vulnerabilities.
Patch Tuesday and Insider Program Updates
No Microsoft Weekly recap is complete without mentioning the routine yet vital security updates and previews:- Patch Tuesday Fixes:
- Windows 10 Users: Make sure to download update KB5051974.
- Windows 11 Users: Look for KB5051987 and KB5051989 to keep your system secure against emerging threats.
- Windows Insider Program:
Microsoft’s Insider builds continue to generate buzz, with fresh releases in various channels: - Dev, Beta, and Release Preview Channels: New build numbers (like Dev Channel 26120.3281 and others in the Beta and Release Preview channels) indicate ongoing enhancements, bug fixes, and experimental features.
Beyond the OS: Additional Microsoft Updates
The news isn’t solely about Windows 11’s inner workings; there are broader developments designed with both everyday users and enthusiasts in mind:- Microsoft Edge Evolves:
- Enhanced Personalization: New tweaks in the Dev Channel have refined personalization settings, creating a more tailored browsing experience.
- Revamped Surf Game: Yes, you read that right. Edge’s built-in Surf game now sports reworked graphics, character customization, and a brand-new game mode—offering a delightful distraction amidst your daily browsing.
- PowerToys with a Twist:
Soon, PowerToys’ Run launcher will integrate with the Windows Package Manager (winget). This means that installing software packages directly from the search box will soon become a reality for power users looking to streamline their workflow. - Privacy Enhancements:
Microsoft is deprecating the Location History feature—a move designed to bolster user privacy by stopping the collection and storage of your PC's location data for services like Cortana. This shift is a welcome upgrade for those scrutinizing their digital footprint. - Other Tidbits:
Beyond the Windows ecosystem, improvements in Outlook for Android and iOS now allow minimized email drafts, and changes in Clipchamp hint at exciting new features set to debut in 2025. Even in hardware and gaming, partnerships and updates (from Forza Motorsport updates to optimized game performance on the Xbox Series S) illustrate Microsoft’s broad roadmap.
Wrapping It Up: What This Means for You
This week’s updates paint a picture of a company fine-tuning its flagship operating system and adjacent services to better align with user needs, security protocols, and modern hardware capabilities. Whether you’re a casual Windows user or a tech aficionado, these changes offer a mix of immediate benefits and forward-thinking improvements:- Enhanced Usability: A more intuitive Start menu means a smoother launch into your daily tasks.
- Hardware & Security: The refined CPU support list ensures that system performance and security remain top-notch.
- Future-Ready: Insider previews and integrated tools like winget in PowerToys signal a future where even mundane tasks become more efficient.
Stay tuned for more deep dives into Microsoft’s evolving ecosystem right here on WindowsForum.com, your trusted space for all things Windows. Happy updating, and see you in the next thread!
Source: Neowin https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-weekly-fixed-windows-11-start-menu-changes-in-cpu-requirements-and-more/
