Microsoft has pulled the plug on its latest optional Windows 11 update (KB5043145) after it caused widespread issues for users, including Blue Screens of Death, repeated restarts, and BitLocker recovery screen errors. This update, released last week, has been plagued with problems, leading Microsoft to implement a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) to revert to the previous code. The company has paused the update and is working on addressing the bugs.
Microsoft is rolling out a wave of AI-powered features for its Copilot+ PCs, starting with the highly anticipated ‘Recall’ feature, followed by upgrades to Photos, Paint, Windows search, and a new ‘Click to Do’ function. These innovations leverage the neural processing unit (NPU) for a smoother and more intuitive user experience.
Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 Insider Preview build brings users the ability to customize the dedicated Copilot key and hints at a potential ‘Hand Off’ feature similar to Apple’s, making device switching seamless.
Microsoft is making it easier for Windows 11 users to control personalized ads and recommendations within the operating system. The company has consolidated ad-related settings in a dedicated ‘Recommendation & Offers’ page within the Settings app, making it simpler to disable these features. This change, currently in testing, aims to improve transparency and user control over personalized content.
Microsoft has introduced native Ahead-of-Time (AOT) compilation support to the Windows App SDK, promising significant performance improvements for Windows 11 apps. This change could lead to faster launch times, reduced package sizes, and smoother app experiences.
The latest Windows 11 cumulative update brings significant performance improvements for AMD Ryzen 7000 and 9000 series CPUs, but it’s also causing a slew of bugs, including game stuttering, crashing, and other glitches. Some users are reporting issues with File Explorer, Windows Security, and even the search function. Microsoft is investigating these issues, but it’s best to proceed with caution and weigh the benefits of the performance boost against the risk of encountering these bugs.
Microsoft is implementing native Ahead-Of-Time (AOT) compilation for Windows App SDK, leading to significantly faster loading times and smaller app packages for apps like Photos and Phone Link. This update promises to improve the overall performance and responsiveness of Windows 11, making it a smoother and more enjoyable experience for users.
Microsoft’s ‘Recall’ feature, which uses AI to search your PC history, is making a comeback after being pulled due to privacy concerns. The revamped version will be opt-in and feature enhanced security measures, including an encrypted database and Windows Hello facial recognition authentication.
Microsoft has introduced a new virtual keyboard layout for Windows 11 that is specifically designed for use with gamepads. The new layout allows users to type using their Xbox controllers, making it easier to navigate Windows 11 on a TV or handheld devices like the ASUS ROG Ally.
Despite Microsoft’s push and the impending end of support for Windows 10 in October 2025, Windows 11 adoption remains sluggish. New data from Statcounter reveals Windows 10 still holds a commanding market share, double that of Windows 11. The slow adoption is attributed to Windows 11’s stringent hardware requirements and lack of compelling new features.
