Tag: Microsoft

  • How to Pause Windows 11 Updates Indefinitely

    How to Pause Windows 11 Updates Indefinitely

    Key Takeaway

    1. Windows Update pause limits have been removed, allowing users to reset the pause end date unlimited times and select specific dates through a new calendar picker.
    2. The Power menu has been restructured to display Restart and Shut down as standard options alongside update options, giving users more control.
    3. Driver, .NET, and firmware updates will now install automatically with monthly quality updates, reducing the need for multiple reboots.
    4. Update and driver details will now include device class labels for better user awareness before installation.
    5. Insiders will continue receiving frequent updates, but broader rollout details have not yet been confirmed.

    Microsoft Introduces New Windows Update Controls

    Microsoft have been kind of struggling with forced update problems for years, and now with the latest update, windows Insiders are getting the first looks. In a recent blog post, Aria Hanson confirmed that new controls for updates rolling out on Dev and Experimental channels are now in place. These updates came after collecting feedback from more than 7,600 users who complained mostly about updates happening at bad times and not having enough control over when they happen.

    Changes in Update Pauses and User Control

    Removal of Limit on Pausing Updates

    The biggest change is that the old hard limit on how long you could pause updates has been removed. Previously, users on Windows 11 Home and Pro could only pause updates for up to five weeks, after which updates would install automatically, no matter what users wanted. Now, the system still has a base interval of 35 days but users can reset the pause date as many times as they want, without any limit. There’s also a new calendar-style picker in Windows Update settings, allowing us to pick a specific date for updates instead of choosing from a fixed list.

    Improved Power Menu Options

    Power Options Now Always Visible

    In the past, when updates were pending, options like Restart and Shut down disappeared and were replaced with ‘Update and restart/shut down’. This was pretty frustrating because it forced users to choose between updating or shutting down without a clear way to reboot without updating. The new change keeps the Restart and Shut down options always visible, alongside update options, so that users get four clear choices instead of just two.

    Enhanced Update Scheduling and Driver Fixes

    Updates Merged into Single Monthly Restart

    Microsoft also plans to coordinate driver, .NET, and firmware updates to occur alongside the usual monthly quality update instead of separate reboots all month long. Retail users outside early access channels will see all those updates combined into a single restart per month. For Insiders in experimental and beta channels, they will still receive weekly builds, while regular retail users will get bi-monthly updates. Additionally, driver updates now include device class labels like display, audio, battery, extension, and HDC, so users know exactly what each driver affects before installing.

    Status and Future Plans

    Availability and Microsoft’s Recommendations

    All these essential updates are now live for Windows Insiders in the Dev and Experimental channels, but Microsoft hasn’t announced when they will be available in wider retail builds. Hanson pointed out that Microsoft still recommends updating promptly for security reasons. They’ve added automatic background recovery for update failures as a backup. Also, the initial setup skip option for updates, introduced earlier this year, remains separate from these new changes.

    Important Note on Recent Problems

    Issue with the April 2026 Patch Tuesday Update

    Recently, Microsoft’s April 2026 Patch Tuesday update, KB5083769, caused some Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 machines to go into boot loops and Blue Screen of Death errors shortly after its release. Users who can still boot normally are advised to pause updates until Microsoft can investigate and fix the problem. More details on admin controls and policies are expected to be shared soon.

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  • Xbox CEO suggests Project Helix might restrict Steam, impacting console PC hybrid

    Xbox CEO suggests Project Helix might restrict Steam, impacting console PC hybrid

    Key Takeaway

    1. Microsoft’s Project Helix aims to be an open ecosystem, but its compatibility with third-party storefronts like Steam is uncertain.
    2. The company has not confirmed whether Steam will be available on Project Helix, suggesting future decisions will be made collaboratively.
    3. There is speculation that a more closed system could lower hardware costs and support Xbox exclusive titles, but this may limit versatility.
    4. Microsoft might prioritize its own store for purchases to maximize revenue, possibly affecting the platform’s openness and user experience.

    Project Helix: A New Hybrid Gaming Device

    As a console PC hybrid, Project Helix could potentially give players access to a huge catalog of games. Many gamers thought that third-party stores might be allowed, but recent details cast doubt on that possibility. In an interview with Game File, Microsoft Gaming’s boss, Asha Sharma, did not confirm if Steam would be available on this new Xbox machine.

    Open Ecosystem or Not?

    The conversation revealed that the team intended to support an “open” system, which is somewhat confusing. Stephen Totilo from Game File asked Sharma if Project Helix would be similar to the ROG Xbox Ally, which is a Windows-based handheld compatible with multiple stores. Sharma emphasized that their main focus was to allow “more people to create on the platform and more players to participate in customizing and extending that.”

    Marketplace Speculations and Future Plans

    Before Sharma’s comments, Steve Allison from Epic Games Store had suggested the Xbox might launch with a marketplace of its own. Sharma then said that she was not involved with those discussions and that the decision about storefronts would be made by the team and partners later. She also indicated that the company would comment more on Steam compatibility or other services down the road.

    Community Reactions and Hardware Expectations

    Fans have been sharing their thoughts on forums like ResetEra about what the new device might mean. Some think Microsoft might be revising their hardware plans, especially since recent updates include improved branding and lower prices for Xbox Game Pass. There’s a lot of debate among gamers about whether Microsoft will keep Project Helix’s hardware costs reasonable or make it more upscale, especially since limiting storefronts could help the company avoid sharing revenue with Valve or Epic Games.

    The Cost and Exclusivity?

    If Microsoft mainly sells through its own store, they might be able to lower the hardware’s cost by not sharing profits with other marketplaces. This might be similar to what they did with the Series X, PS5, and Switch 2, although manufacturing costs remain high due to chip shortages. Unlike regular PCs running Windows, a more restricted system like Project Helix could also focus on Xbox exclusives, although Sharma mentioned they are reconsidering exclusivity options. Ultimately, the device may not be as flexible as some had hoped, and it might lean more towards being a dedicated gaming box than a true all-round PC.

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  • Low-Priced Xbox Game Pass Starter Tier Leak with Cloud Gaming and Discord Nitro

    Low-Priced Xbox Game Pass Starter Tier Leak with Cloud Gaming and Discord Nitro

    Key Takeaway

    1. Microsoft is developing a cheaper “Xbox Game Pass Starter Edition” tier that includes games, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and additional subscription integrations.
    2. The tier may feature third-party titles, streaming with possible time or hourly caps, and benefits like earning Xbox Rewards points.
    3. The goal is to attract more budget-conscious gamers and potentially encourage upgrades to higher-tier plans, while offering more variety and affordability.

    Lowered Prices and New Plans

    Recently, Microsoft has decreased the price for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, making it a more attractive option for gamers. Even though the price is now more affordable, it still remains a significant monthly expenditure. Now, there are speculations about a new Starter tier that might cost even less than the current Essential plan, which could appeal to budget-conscious gamers.

    Details of the New Xbox Game Pass Starter Edition

    Based on recent data mined by Better xCloud, this potential new tier is called Xbox Game Pass Starter Edition. The leaked info hints that it will include access to games, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and possibly other subscription benefits. The social media presence of Redphx previously pointed out references to tiers called Triton and Duet, which are now labelled as Starter Edition in newer codes. These plans might include some familiar perks along with additional surprises.

    Game Library and Streaming Features

    Initially, the discovery suggested that Triton may feature first-party titles from Xbox, including game series like Doom, Halo, and Fallout. While these were not declared as launch day titles, they were indicative of a broad game selection. Recent reports imply that third-party titles could also be part of this limited-access service, broadening the gaming options for users.

    Streaming Limitations and Bundled Advantages

    The new tier is expected to support Xbox Cloud Gaming, but there could be some restrictions such as streaming with time limits or hourly caps. Unlike the existing Essential plan, which currently doesn’t impose such limits. Another focus appears to be on integrating with other streaming platforms and subscription services, possibly including partnerships with Netflix, World of Warcraft, or Minecraft Realms, helping players with tight budgets save money.

    Additional Details and Future Plans

    Recent leaks from Discord Previews shed some light on what to expect from the Game Pass Starter Edition. A leaked banner indicates it will feature over 50 titles, provide 10 hours of cloud gaming per month, and include opportunities to earn Xbox Rewards points. These perks could be unlocked with a Discord Nitro subscription, adding cherry to the cake.

    Microsoft’s Strategy for Cheaper Gaming

    Microsoft seems to be actively exploring ways to introduce more diverse options while lowering monthly costs further. The intent behind this new plan appears to be giving users a taste of the game library and xCloud streaming, hoping to encourage players to eventually upgrade to the Premium or Ultimate versions. If priced below the $9.99 Essential plan, many gamers might find this new tier the best deal to get gaming perks at minimal expense.

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  • Xbox Game Pass Price Drop Could Make First-Party and Cloud Gaming Optional

    Xbox Game Pass Price Drop Could Make First-Party and Cloud Gaming Optional

    Key Takeaway

    1. Microsoft is considering a more personalized Xbox Game Pass, allowing users to customize plans based on their preferences.
    2. The company has reduced the price of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC tiers to attract more subscribers and address affordability.
    3. Removing day-one Call of Duty releases aims to balance revenue and subscription growth, with a shift toward offering more tailored options.
    4. Future plans may include bundling subscriptions, such as Netflix, and allowing more flexible, à la carte content options for players.
    5. Implementing a highly customizable model could be complex given existing tier structures, but Microsoft acknowledges that no single approach suits all users.

    Microsoft’s New Pricing Strategy for Xbox Game Pass

    To solve the problem of affordability, Microsoft has cut the cost of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to just $22.99 per month. The price for the PC version is also cheaper now, which suggests that the company might be planning some more changes in the near future. According to Jez Corden, who was right in predicting this news, there’s a possibility that the subscription might soon offer a “pick your own plan” approach.

    Potential for Personalized Subscription Plans

    , as described in a recent article of Windows Central, Corden’s insiders have leaked out information pointing to a more custom made Game Pass. Gamers could be able to choose which types of content they want, such as prioritizing Xbox’s first-party games or cloud gaming options. Subscriptions for games like World of Warcraft or Minecraft Realms are considered likely options. Also, there’s talk about bundles that include Netflix or other services, which was hinted at in past leaks.

    Debate Over Value and Customization

    While many users have praised the lower price of the Ultimate plan, some critics argue that it’s still not offering enough value. The idea is that with an à la carte style, players could put together a cheaper plan with only the content they love. On the other hand, serious gamers might want to pay more to get all available options bundled together for a complete experience.

    Changes in Content Strategy and Sales Impact

    Corden’s report sheds some light about why Microsoft decided not to include the early-release Call of Duty games in the subscription. It seems that releasing them on day one was actually hurting sales of the games and not attracting enough new subscribers either. Hence, removing these first-party titles from the service allows Microsoft to protect its revenue and make the subscription price more attractive to users.

    Future of Customization and Subscription Tiers

    The plan is to let Activision fans and other gamers pay full price for certain titles until they become available on specific tiers later on. Besides, it looks like Microsoft recognizes the need for more tailored options: “Our players cover a wide breadth of geographies, preferences, and tastes,” the company mentioned. Also, they openly said that “there isn’t a single model that’s best for everyone.”

    Implementing Flexible Options

    Although offering more flexible choices sounds good, it’s not easy to put into place. Currently, Game Pass offers several tiers—Essential, Premium, and Ultimate—and there’s talk about perhaps merging the PC plan with one of these. Making it easier by turning individual perks like cloud gaming on or off may end up complicating the service instead of simplifying it for users.

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  • Ex-PlayStation Boss Warns of Grim Future for Xbox Game Pass Despite Rumored Price Cuts

    Ex-PlayStation Boss Warns of Grim Future for Xbox Game Pass Despite Rumored Price Cuts

    Key Takeaway

    1. Shawn Layden criticizes Xbox Game Pass, calling it a “grim prognosis” for the industry and doubting its sustainability.
    2. He opposes the subscription model, viewing it as a “danger” to the gaming business and unfavorable for indie developers.
    3. Despite Microsoft’s efforts, Layden believes the service may be beyond saving, and recent price increases could further alienate consumers.

    Shawn Layden Criticizes Xbox Game Pass

    Shawn Layden, who was once the boss of Sony Interactive Entertainment, has always been open about his thoughts on the gaming world. Recently, he shared some blunt opinions about Xbox’s subscription service called Xbox Game Pass. He didn’t hold back in his views, especially after noticing some troubling signs in the industry that he believes aren’t good for gaming consumers.

    Concerns Over Subscription Pricing

    He reacted strongly to a report from The Verge about comments made by Asha Sharma, the CEO of Xbox, admitting that the higher tiers like Ultimate are “too expensive for players”. Fans saw the recent increase in the Xbox Game Pass prices in October 2025, which led many to cancel their subscriptions. Sharma mentioned that Microsoft needs to address the value they offer, but Layden isn’t convinced this can be fixed easily. He said on LinkedIn: “They are trying so hard to will this into health, despite unfavorable diagnostics and a grim prognosis. A clarifying post mortem would do the entire industry some good.”

    Industry Reactions and Future Strategies

    Interestingly, a few days later, Sharma responded to Layden saying, “I would love to chat sometime.” Rumors are floating around that Microsoft might start removing some of the day-one Game Pass games, including huge titles like Call of Duty, fearing that the popularity of these games could hurt sales elsewhere. Microsoft might also experiment with bundles, teaming up with Netflix for streaming and gaming. Still, these ideas don’t seem to solve the core issue Layden highlighted regarding the company’s strategy and the value proposition for consumers.

    Layden’s Views on Subscription Models

    Back in August 2025, Layden spoke to GamesIndustry.biz about his dislike for the whole idea of a “Netflix of gaming.” He sees this model as potentially harmful to the gaming business because it might flood the market with AAA titles from Xbox Game Pass right at launch, which can be risky. He pointed out that indie developers gain some exposure but often end up in a “wage slave” situation, whereas developers on Steam can make higher profits even after Valve’s cut. His concern is that the shift toward subscription services could hurt the traditional way of buying games.

    Market Challenges and Future Outlook

    Making Xbox’s prices more appealing may not be enough to sway critics, especially those who still prefer buying games outright. The Xbox CEO needs to act quickly because recent reports show that growth for the subscription service has slowed down significantly. Layden’s criticisms reflect a wider debate about how gaming is changing and whether the industry needs to find a more balanced approach between subscription and traditional sales.

    So, while Microsoft tries to adapt, the debate about the future of gaming sales and services continues, and experts like Layden remain skeptical about whether current strategies will succeed in the long run.


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  • Microsoft may remove Call of Duty from Xbox Game Pass amid declining first-party game sales

    Microsoft may remove Call of Duty from Xbox Game Pass amid declining first-party game sales

    Key Takeaway

    1. Microsoft’s gaming revenue declined by 9%, with support for first-party Xbox games weakening, partly due to Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 struggles.
    2. There is speculation that future Call of Duty titles might be removed from Xbox Game Pass to prevent cannibalization of premium sales.
    3. Call of Duty and other AAA Xbox games have experienced significant sales losses, attributed to their availability on subscription services and the impact on standalone sales.
    4. Microsoft’s overall content growth and revenue are stagnating, prompting potential strategies like removing Call of Duty from subscription tiers or delaying releases.

    Games Revenue Fell Significantly

    In the month of January, Microsoft reports were indicating that their gaming revenue went down about 9% from the same 3-months period last year. Support for their own Xbox titles took a hit, especially with the struggles faced by Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, which was a big factor in the decline. There are worries that the Xbox Game Pass might have been eating into the sales since some believe that more people were playing via subscription than buying individual games. Because of this, some insider is saying that future game releases might decide to skip the subscription service altogether.

    Expert Opinions and Industry Insights

    Jez Corden from Windows Central shared these insights on a fresh podcast, saying that the idea of removing Call of Duty games from the Game Pass isn’t just a rumor, it’s a possibility. During the same broadcast, he talked about how that popular AAA Xbox games are being affected because they become available from day one on the Game Pass Ultimate or other tiers, making it less attractive to buy the physical or digital copies separately.

    Impact on Game Sales and Market Trends

    While Microsoft hasn’t publicly released exact numbers about their sales losses, industry insiders have shared their opinions. For example, Christopher Dring from The Game Business pointed out that titles on the service tend to lose “around 80 percent of expected premium sales on Xbox.” Games like Starfield and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle also saw their sales affected, signaling a broader trend where subscription services might be hurting traditional game sales.

    Black Ops 6 and Price Losses

    Before the release of Black Ops 7, there was already signs that Game Pass was hurting the franchise. The first installment to launch with day-one availability on the service was Black Ops 6 in 2024. Bloomberg estimated that the game might have lost up to $300 million because of the reliance on subscriptions, which shows how much the revenue model can impact the game’s profitability.

    Declining Sales and Player Counts

    In more recent leaks from a lawsuit related to Activision-Blizzard’s former CEO Bobby Kotick, it was revealed that Call of Duty sales fell by a staggering 60% in 2025. This decline isn’t surprising because the series has seen historically low player counts on Steam, and other titles like EA’s Battlefield 6 have also pulled some attention away. The competition and changing consumer habits seem to be hitting the franchise hard.

    Financial Performance and Future Strategies

    Microsoft’s latest financial statement shows a 5% decrease in quarterly revenue year-over-year. If key franchises like Call of Duty aren’t enticing new subscribers or encouraging standalone sales, then the company might need to reconsider its strategies to boost growth.

    Potential Changes for Accessibility and Pricing

    A lot of critics argue that Activision’s franchise is partly responsible for the recent price hike of Xbox Game Pass. Some suggest they might remove Call of Duty from the Ultimate tier to offer cheaper options or delay its release on Game Pass to protect launch-day sales, hoping to balance both subscriptions and standalone purchases better.

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  • Xbox Might Sacrifice Profits to Promote Play Anywhere Over Steam or PlayStation

    Xbox Might Sacrifice Profits to Promote Play Anywhere Over Steam or PlayStation

    Key Takeaway

    1. Microsoft is offering increased revenue shares to encourage developers to optimize and publish games on the Windows Store, including via Xbox Play Anywhere.
    2. The company faces challenges convincing developers to favor its marketplace over Steam and the PlayStation Store due to existing preferences and platform differences.
    3. Xbox Play Anywhere is seen as a strategic move to support Project Helix, a hybrid Windows-based system, with a goal of broad compatibility across devices, though competition remains strong.
    4. Despite having over 1000 Play Anywhere titles, Microsoft’s market share remains limited compared to Steam and Sony, with developer hesitation about managing cross-platform features being a barrier.

    Microsoft’s Strategy to Boost Xbox Play Anywhere Adoption

    Microsoft is trying to make the Xbox Play Anywhere feature more attractive to game developers. They are now offer more profit share to studios that release games compatible with both Xbox and Windows. This is in response to the flat sales of the ROG Xbox Ally, a portable gaming device, which has made the company look for ways to enhance the ecosystem. The new deal offers a higher revenue share for the first million in sales through the Windows Store, hoping to encourage more developers to optimize their titles for Windows handheld devices.

    Market Challenges and Developer Hesitations

    From what insider Moore’s Law Is Dead has learned, there’s a concern that many game creators prefer other platforms like Steam or the PlayStation Store to reach their audiences. These platforms have loyal users and are seen as more appealing for publishing upcoming titles. Without convincing these skeptics, the success of the new Xbox console might be in question, as developers are hesitant to commit unless there’s a clear benefit. The push for more cross-platform titles seems to be part of a broader strategy to unify the gaming experience across devices.

    Upcoming Projects and Compatibility Plans

    Looking ahead, Microsoft appears to laying a stronger foundation for Project Helix, a new gaming system expected to run on a customized version of Windows. Although details are still emerging, Xbox Play Anywhere will continue to be involved. The set-up at GDC 2026 suggests that developers may have the option to code exclusively for Helix, offering minimal extra work for PC compatibility but without making it obligatory. The goal is to make games accessible on Helix, portable gaming PCs, and other Windows devices, while keeping the door open for competitors like Steam and Sony’s PS Store.

    Potential Industry Impacts and Developer Concerns

    • Microsoft’s eagerness to bring publishers into its store may come at a cost, as it might reduce earnings or scare some developers away.
    • Even with over 1,000 Play Anywhere titles, this number remains small compared to the vast libraries on Steam and PlayStation. This limited selection, combined with the extra effort to support multiple versions of games, can scare developers from fully committing to the initiative.
    • Furthermore, maintaining different versions for multiple platforms with unique features could be a daunting task, leading to hesitation among developers to take full advantage of the cross-platform strategy.

    All in all, Microsoft’s initiatives show a clear effort to strengthen its gaming ecosystem, but success depends on overcoming the considerable hurdles relating to developer preferences and market competition.

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  • Xbox Game Pass Could Offer Cheaper First-Party Tiers with Halo, Fallout, DOOM

    Xbox Game Pass Could Offer Cheaper First-Party Tiers with Halo, Fallout, DOOM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Recent price hikes have made Xbox Game Pass less appealing to many users.
    2. Microsoft may be developing a new initiative called “TRION” or “TRITON,” focusing on first-party games.
    3. The potential new tier could feature titles from Xbox Game Studios, including popular games like DOOM Eternal and Halo 5.
    4. Reactions to the new tier idea are mixed; some see it as a good entry-level option, while others view it as a collection of older games.
    5. The launch date and details of the more affordable Game Pass tier remain uncertain.

    Recent price hikes have made Xbox Game Pass less appealing to numerous users. It seems that Microsoft might be considering adjustments once again. A datamining leak from @redphx suggests that the company is developing a new initiative called “TRION” or “TRITON,” which could vary greatly from the current tiers. Instead of a mixed selection, this potential new tier would reportedly feature only games from Xbox Game Studios or a broader first-party ecosystem. However, this information has not been officially verified yet.

    Possible Game Lineup

    Reportedly, the content could include titles like DOOM Eternal, Dishonored 2, Fable Anniversary, Fallout 4, Fallout 76, Gears 5, Halo 5, Halo Wars 2, Hellblade, Ori and the Blind Forest, State of Decay 2, and The Elder Scrolls Online. Additionally, classic titles such as DOOM 64 or Psychonauts might also be included in this new offering. The leak gains further support from recent statements made by new Xbox president Asha Sharma, indicating that Microsoft is considering a less expensive Xbox Game Pass tier.

    Mixed Reactions

    Reactions in the comments under the X post are split. Some people see the idea as a reasonable entry-level option that – if priced right – could appeal to casual gamers. Others think of it as merely a collection of older first-party games that won’t do much to rescue the struggling Xbox Game Pass. At this moment, however, it is uncertain if and when Microsoft will actually launch a more affordable Game Pass tier.

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  • Microsoft March 2026 Patch Tuesday: Fixes for 2 Zero-Day Vulnerabilities

    Microsoft March 2026 Patch Tuesday: Fixes for 2 Zero-Day Vulnerabilities

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft’s March 2026 Patch Tuesday addresses 79 vulnerabilities, including two zero-days and three critical issues.
    2. Updates KB5079473 and KB5078883 for Windows 11 improve security and reliability, while KB5078885 for Windows 10 also combines security fixes with quality improvements.
    3. Security vulnerabilities in Microsoft Office, particularly related to remote code execution, have been patched this month.
    4. The updates enhance features like Secure Boot certificate targeting and File Explorer reliability, with no known issues reported.
    5. Windows 10 users are especially impacted, as this update is crucial following the end of mainstream support on October 14, 2025.

    Microsoft’s Patch Tuesday on March 10, 2026, brings important fixes for a total of 79 vulnerabilities. This includes two zero-days that were made public and three Critical weaknesses. As per BleepingComputer’s summary, the zero-days include CVE-2026-21262 in SQL Server and CVE-2026-26127 in .NET. Additionally, this month’s update also resolves two remote-code-execution issues in Microsoft Office that can be activated through the preview pane.

    Windows Update Details

    On the Windows front, Microsoft has released KB5079473 for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, updating those builds to OS Builds 26200.8037 and 26100.8037, respectively. For Windows 11 version 23H2, KB5078883 is now available, bringing it to OS Build 22631.6783. Windows 10’s versions 22H2 and 21H2 have also received KB5078885, which updates them to OS Builds 19045.7058 and 19044.7058.

    Microsoft states that KB5079473 for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2 contains the latest security fixes along with non-security updates from the previous month’s preview release. The support documentation mentions enhanced Secure Boot certificate targeting, improved reliability in File Explorer search across multiple drives or “This PC,” better handling of COM allowlisting policies in Windows Defender Application Control, and a clearer trust warning in Windows System Image Manager. The company also indicates that no issues have been reported with this update.

    Specifics for Windows 11 and 10

    For Windows 11 version 23H2, KB5078883 addresses security vulnerabilities and includes quality fixes from February. These enhancements feature broader targeting for new Secure Boot certificates, two new PowerShell options related to Secure Boot, improved File History reliability for certain character sets, enhanced GPU stability during shutdowns and heavy graphics tasks, and the same trusted-catalog warning dialog in Windows System Image Manager. According to Microsoft’s support page, they are not aware of any problems associated with KB5078883.

    Similarly, Windows 10’s KB5078885 combines March’s security fixes with some quality improvements. Microsoft emphasizes a trusted-source warning for catalog file selection in Windows System Image Manager, fixes for File History backups concerning specific Chinese and Private Use Area character names, better GPU stability, and broader targeting for devices that can automatically receive new Secure Boot certificates. Microsoft claims there are no known issues with this update as well.

    Focus on Vulnerabilities

    The main focus remains on the vulnerabilities rather than the feature updates. In addition to the two public zero-days, BleepingComputer reveals that Microsoft has also patched two flaws in Office that could be exploited through the preview pane, and an Excel issue that could be used to extract data via Copilot Agent mode. This makes March’s Patch Tuesday more significant than a typical cumulative update, even if Microsoft’s release notes are somewhat sparse in terms of user-facing changes.

    For Windows 10 users, this update comes after the end of mainstream support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Microsoft has stated that PCs can continue to operate, but standard technical support, feature updates, and security updates will not be available outside of the Extended Security Updates path. This is why March’s Windows 10 security package is especially important for systems that are still being maintained under that post-EOS route.

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  • Microsoft’s Xbox Project Helix: Insider Reveals Content Strategy

    Microsoft’s Xbox Project Helix: Insider Reveals Content Strategy

    Key Takeaways

    1. No Exclusives Expected: Insider SneakersSO stated that Microsoft is not planning to revive console exclusives for the upcoming Xbox Project Helix.

    2. Insights from Asha Sharma: Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma indicated that Project Helix will support both Xbox and PC games, potentially using a PC-like framework for compatibility.

    3. A Shift in Strategy: The strategy to merge Xbox and PC gaming is not new; it aligns with previous initiatives aimed at closer integration since 2016.

    4. Diminishing Focus on Exclusives: With shrinking console sales and a decreasing install base, Microsoft may focus more on multiplatform releases to reach a wider audience.

    5. Projected Install Base: By the end of 2025, the combined install base for Xbox Series S and X is expected to be around 30 million units, further influencing Microsoft’s strategy.

    SnakersSO, a prominent insider from NeoGAF with ties to Microsoft, has shared insights about the company’s plan for the upcoming Xbox Helix. The insider has minimized the chances of Microsoft bringing back exclusives like it did with older consoles.

    No Exclusives Expected

    In a recent conversation regarding the potential for Microsoft to revive console exclusives for the forthcoming Xbox Project Helix, the leaker stated, “Exclusives are absolutely not happening.” This comment came on the heels of a confirmation from Asha Sharma, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, who did not delve into the technical aspects of the next-gen Xbox, known as Helix.

    Insights from Asha Sharma

    Sharma hinted that the new gaming device is designed to support both Xbox and PC games. Although the method to achieve this remains unclear, one potential solution could involve creating the system with a PC-like framework. This would mean utilizing emulation and translation layers to ensure compatibility with Xbox titles, which is in line with Microsoft’s aim for a platform-agnostic approach.

    If Project Helix operates more like a tailored PC rather than a typical home console, the traditional notion of console exclusives may lose its significance. The merging of Xbox and PC gaming is not a completely new idea, either.

    A Shift in Strategy

    As we reported earlier, after Sharma unveiled the Helix codename, Tom Warren from The Verge mentioned that a similar strategy emerged back in 2016. At that time, a Kotaku article described Project Helix as a plan to bring Xbox and Windows closer together. This vision started to take shape with the initial cross-platform titles, such as Sea of Thieves (currently priced at $35.19 on Amazon).

    Market dynamics also indicate that the focus on traditional Xbox exclusives is diminishing. The company has seen its console install base shrink over the years. Microsoft managed to sell around 84 million units of the Xbox 360 globally, while the Xbox One’s estimated sales sit at about 58 million.

    By the end of 2025, the Xbox Series S and X are projected to have a combined install base of roughly 30 million units. Given this decreasing audience, prioritizing multiplatform releases would enable Microsoft to connect with a broader group of players, an approach already demonstrated by prior cross-platform launches.

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