It's that time of the week – let’s grab a cup of coffee, fire up those monitors, and talk all things Windows. In this comprehensive rundown of the big news, we’re diving into the latest Patch Tuesday updates, dissecting why Microsoft’s stance on Windows 11 system requirements remains tougher than a diamond-tipped drill, and exploring new features, quirky happenings, and even a touch of controversy within the ever-evolving Windows ecosystem.
Despite enthusiasts showcasing clever workarounds or older builds running relatively well on legacy hardware, Microsoft continues to stand firm. This move is no doubt linked to heightened security standards, enhanced compatibility, and future-focused performance goals, but for some, it also smells like forced obsolescence. Is Microsoft shutting the door on older devices unnecessarily, or is this a necessary step toward progress?
Of special note: the “Recall” feature of Copilot has sparked some controversy. While helpful in retrieving old commands and documents, Recall has raised some security concerns – particularly due to its penchant for scooping up sensitive data like credit card numbers.
What do you think about Microsoft's decision to keep requirements strict for Windows 11? Is it future-proofing or unfair gatekeeping? Sound off in the comments below and let us know.
Source: Neowin Microsoft Weekly: Windows 11 requirements are here to stay, Patch Tuesday, deals, and more
Patch Tuesday: December 2024 Highlights
For those of you keeping score, Microsoft dropped its regular batch of updates as part of December’s Patch Tuesday lineup. Here’s what’s happening for enthusiasts and enterprise users alike:- Windows 11 received two hefty updates: KB5048667 and KB5048685, focusing on vital security and functionality improvements.
- Windows 10 users weren’t left behind, with varied packages like KB5048652, KB5048661, KB5048671, and KB5048703 making rounds.
Speaking of Qualifications…
Let’s address the elephant in the room: Windows 11’s system requirements aren’t budging. Microsoft updated its support documentation to reiterate that certain controversial specs – like the need for TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module), a minimum of 4 GB RAM, and modern Intel/AMD processors – remain non-negotiable.Despite enthusiasts showcasing clever workarounds or older builds running relatively well on legacy hardware, Microsoft continues to stand firm. This move is no doubt linked to heightened security standards, enhanced compatibility, and future-focused performance goals, but for some, it also smells like forced obsolescence. Is Microsoft shutting the door on older devices unnecessarily, or is this a necessary step toward progress?
Windows 11 Changes and Insider Tidbits
Microsoft wasn’t just about updates this week; they also bid adieu to some features while introducing others:The End of Suggested Actions
If you’re a fan—or perhaps not—of the Suggested Actions feature in Windows 11, brace yourself. This somewhat divisive addition to the operating system has been officially deprecated, with plans to remove it entirely in a future update. For the uninitiated, this feature basically tries to predict your next action (like adding dates from messages into your calendar) – but clearly, it wasn’t wowing too many users.Bye-Bye, NTLM Authentication
Advanced sysadmins, take note: Microsoft is removing NTLM (New Technology LAN Manager) from Windows 11’s 24H2 release and Windows Server 2025. Replacing this aged protocol with Kerberos and NTLM hash security mechanisms makes sense for a modern, hacker-ridden world but signals the end of yet another legacy feature.An Emoji-Filled Holiday Season?
For those in the Windows Insider Program, Microsoft has hidden a delightful feature in the recent Beta Channel build (22635.4580). Users can now potentially pepper their Taskbars with easy-access emoji shortcuts. Minor but fun, it’s a subtle shift toward making everyday functionality a tad more expressive.A New (and Slightly Quirky) Copilot
Windows Copilot continues its erratic evolution with an updated build for Windows Insiders. While Microsoft touts it as “fully native,” eagle-eyed techies discovered it’s still essentially a web wrapper in disguise. However, the tool’s UI now boasts a shinier look alongside performance tweaks.Of special note: the “Recall” feature of Copilot has sparked some controversy. While helpful in retrieving old commands and documents, Recall has raised some security concerns – particularly due to its penchant for scooping up sensitive data like credit card numbers.
The Gaming Scene: Ray-Traced Australia to DOOM-Field Space
No Windows Weekly would be complete without some gaming goodies, and we’ve got plenty to unwrap:- Forza Motorsport Update 15: Bringing the magic of Australia to the racing sim alongside ray-traced global illumination for next-level lighting.
- Starfield + Doom Slayer Crossover: Starfield's update now lets you dress up like the infamous Doom Slayer. Yes, Bethesda went there.
- Xbox Cloud Gaming Evolution: Xbox Insiders can now stream some non-Game Pass titles (if you own them) via the cloud, a step forward for the platform's flexibility.
Deals That (Almost) Break the Internet
No time like the present to upgrade your tech arsenal as prices plummet everywhere:- Logitech MX Master 3S Mouse: Down to $80.74 (19% off) – the perfect companion for productivity geeks.
- 65-inch LG C3 OLED 4K TV: Yours for $1,196.99 (20% off) if ultra-crisp visuals are your jam.
- 2TB Corsair MP700 PRO SE SSD: Available now at $276. It might just be the storage solution you didn’t know you needed.
Wrapping It Up: What’s Next?
Whether it’s Microsoft’s ironclad take on system requirements or intriguing Insider tidbits keeping devices fresh, it’s clear that the Windows ecosystem continues to evolve at an intense pace. What’s next—Windows 11 embraced on ARM gaming rigs? AI rewriting system files? Only time will tell. Until then, savor those updates, tweak your systems, and keep questioning whether TPM 2.0 is really that necessary.What do you think about Microsoft's decision to keep requirements strict for Windows 11? Is it future-proofing or unfair gatekeeping? Sound off in the comments below and let us know.
Source: Neowin Microsoft Weekly: Windows 11 requirements are here to stay, Patch Tuesday, deals, and more
