Windows 10 Latest News https://www.windowslatest.com/windows-10-news/ Your source for all things Microsoft Tue, 12 Nov 2024 19:50:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Windows 10 KB5046613 adds Microsoft account manager (direct download .msu) https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/12/windows-10-kb5046613-brings-the-account-manager-to-the-start-menu-direct-download-msu/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/12/windows-10-kb5046613-brings-the-account-manager-to-the-start-menu-direct-download-msu/#comments Tue, 12 Nov 2024 17:15:06 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=77011 Windows 10 KB5046613 brings the Account Manager to the Start menu. Check out direct download links for the offline installer file.

The post Windows 10 KB5046613 adds Microsoft account manager (direct download .msu) appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
Windows 10 KB5046613, the November 2024 security update for Windows 11 22H2, is available now. It will install automatically via Settings > Updates & Security > Windows Update, but Microsoft has also published the offline installer file (.msu) links on the Microsoft update catalog site.

KB5046613 is a mandatory November 2024 Patch Tuesday update. The main highlight of this update is the new Account Manager in the Start menu that lets you check the currently active account, some key Microsoft service stats, and promotional stuff. We aren’t fans of the promotional stuff, but that’s just Microsoft putting in too much effort.

KB5046613 Windows Update
Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

As shown in the above screenshot, Windows Latest observed that Windows 10’s Start menu now has the same Microsoft account manager integration available in Windows 11. It’ll likely get better in an upcoming release, but it’s here to stay and you cannot remove it.

The rest of the changes are just fixes for the existing problems with Windows 10. One of the major fixes is for the Windows 11 upgrade issue. When a Windows 10 user tried to upgrade to Windows 11, the PC crashed with a BSOD error, but this has now been fixed.

If you check for updates today, you’ll see “2024-11 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version 22H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5046613).”

Download Links for Windows 10 KB5046613

Windows 10 KB5046613 Direct Download Links: 64-bit and 32-bit (x86).

If you don’t get the update or it fails to install, use the above offline installer file to install the November 2024 security update. It will advance your PC to Windows 10 Build 19045.5131.

What’s new in Windows 10 Build 19045.5131

Microsoft has fixed an issue where some games stopped responding after Windows 10 KB5044384. According to the company, a bug in a recent update caused DRM-based games to crash. This was due to a change made in the previous update, which is being reverted with today’s patch.

Due to a bug in Windows 10, some multifunction printers worked incorrectly and would print the command string without any request from the user. Even drivers failed to install while connecting to a multifunction printer via a USB cable.

This issue was present in Windows 11 as well and is now patched in both operating systems.

Here are the other noteworthy upgrades added in Windows 10 22H2 build 1904x.5131:

  • There’s a new product activation phone number that works in multiple regions.
  • Microsoft has fixed an issue where Vmswitch produced a stop error while managing and switching between two virtual machines.
  • A bug has been fixed where WebView2 apps couldn’t recognize the device when you connected an Xbox 360 or any other Bluetooth controller.
  • Some system apps like Windows Narrator failed to start for non-admin user profiles. This has been fixed.
  • Azure Virtual Desktop users faced a black screen issue after logging in and couldn’t sign in to office apps. Microsoft has also patched it.

All these features and improvements will become available after you install the Windows 10 KB5046613 update.

According to the release notes, Microsoft is still aware of an issue where some apps could fail to open. This issue affects apps such as Teams, Narrator and even Quick Assist.

Microsoft confirmed it has already started rolling out a fix for the issue, which will be automatically delivered via a server-side update.

The post Windows 10 KB5046613 adds Microsoft account manager (direct download .msu) appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/12/windows-10-kb5046613-brings-the-account-manager-to-the-start-menu-direct-download-msu/feed/ 0
Microsoft begins promoting Windows 11 24H2 on Windows 10 to push migration https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/11/microsoft-begins-promoting-windows-11-24h2-to-windows-10-to-push-migration/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/11/microsoft-begins-promoting-windows-11-24h2-to-windows-10-to-push-migration/#comments Sun, 10 Nov 2024 21:24:38 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=76959 Windows 11 24H2 is the best version of Windows 11. It offers enhanced stability, introduces useful features, and has a more polished feel compared to earlier versions. Microsoft is now promoting Windows 11 to Windows 10 users by highlighting this release.

The post Microsoft begins promoting Windows 11 24H2 on Windows 10 to push migration appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
Windows 11 24H2 is the best version of Windows 11. It’s more stable, has some good features, and feels more polished than the previous versions of Windows 11. Microsoft is now using it as a way to convince Windows 10 users to get Windows 11, a “free” upgrade for all existing PCs.

Via a server-side update, Microsoft has started showing the “Windows 11 version 24H2” banner on Windows 10. As shown in the screenshot below, Windows Latest first spotted that Microsoft has updated the way it promotes Windows upgrades.

Previously, users were seeing updates for Windows 11 versions like 22H2 and 23H2, but now, through a server-side update, a new banner is being shown to encourage upgrading to Windows 11 version 24H2.

Windows 11 24H2 recommended on Windows 10
Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

The design of the banner hasn’t changed, and it’s still the same thing, but when you click on download button, it begins downloading Windows 11 24H2 on Windows 10.

A Microsoft representative confirmed that the company had updated the banner on Windows 10’s Windows Update support page to reflect “Windows 11, version 24H2” and reminded everyone that it was a free update.

There’s a smaller link below that lets you stay on Windows 10 if you prefer.

But Microsoft will be experimenting with more updated banners in the coming weeks as Windows 10 approach end of support deadline.

Based on the references we have seen, Microsoft may have also planned to replace the banner again to warn that the end of support is nearing and that Windows 11 24H2 is a better choice.

Is Windows 11 catching up?

I switch back and forth between Windows 11 and Windows 10, and it’s no secret that Windows 10 feels more polished than Windows 11, especially the File Explorer or the context menu, which takes longer than usual to load.

In fact, on Windows 11, a part of the File Explorer does not even load instantly while the app is open.

But as much as you may want to keep using Windows 10, you’ll probably need to give Windows 11 a try sooner rather than later.

Windows 11 24H2 feels more polished, especially if you work for a business and have the license to use LTSC.

windows 11 ltsc 2024 paint app
Windows 11 24H2 LTSC

In our tests, Windows Latest observed that Windows 11 24H2 LTSC still comes with your favourite legacy apps, is more or less as fast as Windows 10, and gets the job done. It also has some good features to try out, such as snap suggestions. There are also many good things about Windows 11 if you play games.

Windows 11’s 2025 update is expected to patch the remaining issues with the OS, and Microsoft will try to pull that off before October 14, 2025. It plans to add more features, including Windows Intelligence (a new umbrella term for AI in Windows). There are plans to bring back Windows 10-like small taskbar in Windows 11.

Okay, but can we still use Windows 10?

But what if you want to use Windows 10 for another year? Microsoft has confirmed that it plans to sell extended security updates for $30.

As soon as Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, you’ll be able to extend support for another year by paying $30.

It’s a one-year program that is valid for one device, and we don’t think that’s a lot of money compared to what enterprises will be paying.

For enterprise customers, Microsoft offers a 3-year ESU program through Volume Licensing, with prices increasing each year. $61 per device in the first year, $122 in the second, and $244 in the third. For educational institutions, it’s just $1 per device for the first year, $2 in the second, and $4 in the third year.

It’s also worth noting that not all versions of Windows 10 will lose support on October 14, 2025. Windows Latest has created a table that sums up the end of support plans:

Version Start Date Mainstream End Date Extended End Date
Windows 10 Home and Pro Jul 29, 2015 Oct 14, 2025 N/A
Windows 10 2015 LTSB Jul 29, 2015 Oct 13, 2020 Oct 14, 2025
Windows 10 2016 LTSB Aug 2, 2016 Oct 12, 2021 Oct 13, 2026
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 Nov 13, 2018 Jan 9, 2024 Jan 9, 2029
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 Nov 16, 2021 Jan 12, 2027 N/A

If you don’t want to pay, you’ll need to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2.

The post Microsoft begins promoting Windows 11 24H2 on Windows 10 to push migration appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/11/microsoft-begins-promoting-windows-11-24h2-to-windows-10-to-push-migration/feed/ 0
Microsoft confirms issues in Windows 10 KB5045594, KB5044273 (mandatory update) https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/03/microsoft-confirms-issues-in-windows-10-kb5045594-kb5044273-mandatory-update/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/03/microsoft-confirms-issues-in-windows-10-kb5045594-kb5044273-mandatory-update/#comments Sun, 03 Nov 2024 17:23:00 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=76798 Who would have thought Windows 10 would still have new bugs as it nears its end of support? Microsoft is aware of three issues affecting some users after installing the October Patch Tuesday update or the optional patch from October 22.

The post Microsoft confirms issues in Windows 10 KB5045594, KB5044273 (mandatory update) appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
Well, who would have thought Windows 10 could also have new bugs when it’s set to reach the end of support in less than a year? Microsoft is aware of as many as three new issues in Windows 10 affecting some people after they installed either KB5044273 (the mandatory October Patch Tuesday release) or KB5045594 (the optional patch released on October 22).

While some people are still struggling to install Windows 10 KB5044273 and KB5045594 due to errors like 0x800f0805, those who have installed either of the updates have reported an issue where apps could fail to launch.

In a Feedback Hub post, one user reported that apps failed to open after installing the KB5044273 security update on their Lenovo 20WE. “We are having issues opening applications after applying KB5044273 on all Lenovo 20WE computers. The issue resolves after uninstalling the update,” they added.

KB5044273
Affected by issues? Uninstall via Control Panel.

Another user flagged that after they installed Windows 10 KB5044273 updates, their apps did not start automatically when they login to Windows. The auto-start for Wallpaper Engine, TranslucentTB, is broken after the patch. The bug is related to an issue that crashes apps in Windows 10.

This is an interesting issue, and what’s important to note is that the app crashing bug affects people on Windows 10 outside the Windows Insider Program. They’re using officially supported hardware and running Microsoft’s recommended security patch for Windows 10.

KB5044273 is a mandatory release that should install automatically unless you manually pause updates from Settings.

More new issues in Windows 10 KB5044273

In an update to one of the support documents, Microsoft confirmed that apps like Teams, Narrator, and Quick Assist could crash when you’re logged in as a non-admin. Microsoft won’t tell us how many apps or users are affected, but the problem is widespread enough for the company to issue an emergency patch.

Microsoft believes that some of you run the apps crashing bug when the app is set to open as non-admin using UIAccess=true This affects apps launching from the following patch:

  • %ProgramFiles%
  • %ProgramFiles(x86)%
  • %systemroot%\system32
  • %systemroot%\syswow64

Does it all mean Windows 10 apps won’t crash when you use apps with admin rights? No, according to Microsoft. You could still run into issues, but you’re “less likely to encounter this issue if you are running the application as an administrator.”

The second bug in Windows 10 KB5044273 affects enterprise customers only, especially those who use Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD). The AVD might cause a black screen when logging in, and you might not be allowed to log out, resulting in another black screen after you attempt to open AVD again.

If you’re affected, you might see ‘svchost.exe_AppXSvc’ in Event Viewe. For affected users, it also means the Start menu could crash or close abruptly.

The third big causes another black screen that stays between 10 to 30 mins when you login to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD).

Microsoft says it’s still working on patching these bugs, and we expect the fixes to arrive on November 12 with Windows 10 November 2024 Patch Tuesday refresh.

Microsoft also announced that you can pay $30 to extend security updates for Windows 10 for another year. The support is set to end on October 14, 2025, but you can extend it until October 14, 2026, for $30.

The post Microsoft confirms issues in Windows 10 KB5045594, KB5044273 (mandatory update) appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/03/microsoft-confirms-issues-in-windows-10-kb5045594-kb5044273-mandatory-update/feed/ 0
Microsoft: Ditch Windows 10 for Windows 11 for better speed, efficiency, and AI https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/02/microsoft-ditch-windows-10-for-windows-11-for-better-speed-efficiency-and-ai/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/02/microsoft-ditch-windows-10-for-windows-11-for-better-speed-efficiency-and-ai/#comments Sat, 02 Nov 2024 13:49:51 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=76755 With Windows 10 support ending in 2025, Microsoft urges users to upgrade to Windows 11 for better security, speed, and features. Here’s what to know about the switch

The post Microsoft: Ditch Windows 10 for Windows 11 for better speed, efficiency, and AI appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
Windows 10 support ends in less than a year on October 14, 2025. When Windows 10 reaches the end of support, you have two options. Upgrade to Windows 11 if you own a supported PC or buy $30 extended security updates. This will give you another year of security updates, but Microsoft doesn’t want you to do that.

Instead, Microsoft wants you to use Windows 11, which is fair enough from the company’s perspective. Microsoft has some reasons it thinks might be genuine enough to convince people to ditch Windows 10 and immediately switch to Windows 11, either by updating their existing PC or upgrading their hardware.

But why would you ditch Windows 10? According to Microsoft, Windows 11 is better in many ways, especially for speed and efficiency. The response time is now much faster in sleep mode, browsing the web, navigation, animation, and more, but Microsoft won’t tell us how fast it is compared to Windows 10.

Copilot+ PCs, running on the latest hardware, are said to be five times faster than five-year-old PCs.

The company says the faster performance and efficiency will help you perform “AI-powered productivity and creativity tasks.” Whatever that means, but you can’t run AI-related features unless you upgrade to a Copilot+ PC.

Microsoft also adds that Windows 11 is “our most secure version of Windows ever” and the company highlight features like TPM 2.0, Smart App Control, and the Pluton security processor can reduce security incidents by as much as 62% compared to Windows 10.

Windows 11’s new security features can protect against hacking, phishing, and malware from the start, which, according to Microsoft, means fewer headaches and risks for users.

For organizations, Microsoft says businesses will experience “50% faster workflows” compared to Windows 10, thanks to Windows Autopilot for setup and Intune for device management.

Is it time to move to Windows 11?

Microsoft wants people to move to Windows 11 as soon as possible, and Windows Latest understands that the company could soon begin notifying more people that Windows 10’s end is near.

It may not aggressively promote Windows 10’s $30 extended security updates but rather focus on migrating users to Windows 11.

When Windows 11 shipped in 2021, it had its own share of issues, and a number of limitations that made the OS less attractive, but with the Windows 11 24H2, I think it has gotten a lot better.

File Explorer tabs
File Explorer’s new tab feature | Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

The animations are smooth, it looks nice, and all Windows 10 apps work fine. It also has a lot of fancy features, such as background removal in Windows Paint, Notepad with tabs, and File Explorer with tabs. It comes down to our preferences, but Windows 11 is a fine operating system on new hardware.

Windows Paint Cocreator
GIF Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

These are some nice quality-of-life improvements, but older hardware, especially unsupported hardware, may not run as smoothly as it did with Windows 10, for obvious reasons. I switch back and forth between Windows 10 and Windows 11 as part of my job, and I find the animations in Windows 10 to be faster — though that might just be me.

As mentioned, Windows 10 support ends in less than a year, and you’ll be able to extend security updates until October 2026 by paying $30.

The post Microsoft: Ditch Windows 10 for Windows 11 for better speed, efficiency, and AI appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/02/microsoft-ditch-windows-10-for-windows-11-for-better-speed-efficiency-and-ai/feed/ 0
After ChatGPT, Claude AI’s Windows 11 app is another Chrome-based Electron wrapper https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/02/claude-ai-windows-11-10-app-is-electron-chromium-wrapper/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/02/claude-ai-windows-11-10-app-is-electron-chromium-wrapper/#comments Fri, 01 Nov 2024 23:02:02 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=76650 Claude has a new app for Windows 11/10 that simply loads https://claude.ai/ in an Electron Chromium container. Chromium powers many popular browsers like Chrome, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi, and Arc.

The post After ChatGPT, Claude AI’s Windows 11 app is another Chrome-based Electron wrapper appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
Claude has a new “app” for Windows 11/10, and I tried it out. And guess what? It simply loads https://claude.ai/ in an Electron Chromium container. For those who are unaware, Chromium powers most of the browsers you use today, such as Chrome, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi, and Arc.

There used to be a time when companies and developers tried building full-fledged apps, native apps that matched the look and feel of Windows. Native apps are still shipped on MacOS or iOS, but I feel that the “era” is long gone on Windows 11/10 and is not coming back unless somebody is building advanced apps.

Microsoft’s new apps are mostly based on Edge WebView, and its competitors also prefer to ship web-based apps. Worse, they use the slower Chromium instead of Microsoft Edge (Edge WebView). After ChatGPT’s Chromium Windows app, Claude has also shipped a similar app.

Claude app for Windows

Like ChatGPT, Claude’s app for Windows 11 (and Windows 10) is powered by Electron.

In our tests, Windows Latest observed that the Claude AI’s app is using an Electron (Chromium) wrapper. We can tell because there are several files typically found in Electron applications. For example, files like “chrome_100_percent.pak” and “chrome_200_percent.pak” are often part of the Chromium engine.

Claude app for Windows 11 is Electron
We extracted the Claude app for Windows | Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

We also spotted files like “libEGL.dll,” “libGLESv2.dll,” and “vulkan-1.dll”, which confirms Claude is using Chromium’s rendering engine.

These are used by Electron to render web content. Electron itself is not necessarily bad, and apps like Notion Ink or Slack also use Electron but deliver a good experience.

In the case of Claude, it’s simply loading the AI’s website. It doesn’t make sense to use Electron when all it tries to load is the website in a Chromium shell.

An Electron Chromium wrapper is heavier than using Edge WebView2 (pre-installed in Windows 11). Claude is installing its own Chromium bundle, which is why it could take more than 200 MB of storage space after some use.

Copilot Claude ChatGPT apps for Windows
Three AI apps’ fresh installation size on Windows | Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

This is more than the new Copilot app, another web wrapper, but it takes less than a megabyte of space on your PC.

The large size and increased resource consumption come from the fact that it’s shipping its own version of Chromium. This is similar to carrying an entire instance of Chrome inside it, which could contribute to increased RAM usage when you use the app.

This goes for the ChatGPT app for Windows 11, too.

Claude’s new app for Windows 11 (and Windows 10) is completely free, and anyone, including those with paid subscription ($20) can access it. For some reason, Claude’s app is not available in the Microsoft Store, so you’ll need to download it from the company’s website.

Claude desktop compact search

We absolutely see no reason to use the Electron-based Claude over its webpage unless you want to try the Ctrl+Alt+Space keyboard shortcut to open Claude AI anywhere on Windows in a small flyout.

Do you really need these AI apps on Windows?

ChatGPT app for Windows 11

If you want to use ChatGPT or Claude on Windows, we recommend accessing them via your browser unless you really want to use some of the desktop-exclusive features.

Claude offers no advantage over its website except the picture in picture mode, which is also available in ChatGPT (screenshot below).

ChatGPT app for Windows 11 PiP

However, the ChatGPT app has another advantage over the website: advanced voice mode on the desktop. This allows you to talk to ChatGPT like a human.

ChatGPT voice mode on Windows

Copilot has a similar feature called “Vision,” which is more advanced than ChatGPT’s integration. However, it’s still being tested in Microsoft Edge, and we don’t know when it will ship to everyone.

Copilot Vision in Microsoft Edge

With Copilot Vision, you’ll be able talk about the Microsoft Edge screen using your voice in real time.

The post After ChatGPT, Claude AI’s Windows 11 app is another Chrome-based Electron wrapper appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/11/02/claude-ai-windows-11-10-app-is-electron-chromium-wrapper/feed/ 0
Microsoft: Pay $30 to keep using Windows 10 securely if you hate Windows 11 https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/31/microsoft-wants-you-to-pay-30-to-keep-using-windows-10-securely-if-you-dont-want-windows-11/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/31/microsoft-wants-you-to-pay-30-to-keep-using-windows-10-securely-if-you-dont-want-windows-11/#comments Thu, 31 Oct 2024 16:33:08 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=76651 With support for Windows 10 ending on October 14, 2025, Microsoft wants people to switch to Windows 11 or pay $30 to keep using Windows 10. We have all the details you need to know.

The post Microsoft: Pay $30 to keep using Windows 10 securely if you hate Windows 11 appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
With support for Windows 10 ending on October 14, 2025, Microsoft wants people to switch to Windows 11 or pay $30 to keep using Windows 10.

You can upgrade to Windows 11 by updating your existing PC or buying new hardware. But what if you’re going to keep using Windows 10 for another year after 2025? You’ll need to pay $30, or your PC will become vulnerable to security issues. That’s because Microsoft will stop releasing security updates for Windows 10 starting October 14, 2025.

I’m going to keep this article as simple as possible for consumers and businesses so you can understand how much and when you need to pay for Windows updates.

As you probably know, Windows 10 was launched on July 19, 2015, and Microsoft committed to 10 years of support, which means until October 14, 2025.

After this date, Microsoft will stop all updates for Windows 10 Home and Pro. This means no feature, monthly, optional, cumulative, security and other critical updates for devices still running Windows 10. As of today, October 31, 2024, there are roughly 349 days left for Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 or pay $30.

You can buy Windows 10 security updates

For enterprise customers, Microsoft always maintained an additional Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which was previously limited to Windows 7. It’s now also coming to Windows 10 as the OS inches closer to the end of support.

The idea behind the ESU is to help businesses slowly move to Windows 11, but Microsoft understands that normal people (consumers) may also want to keep using Windows 10 for another year.

In an updated support document, Microsoft confirmed that, for the first time, it is offering the ESU program to consumers. This will be available for a $30 one-year subscription, with option to buy the “extended updates” closer to the 2025 end date. You can only buy it for one time only.

For enterprise and education customers, Windows 10 also has a ten-year support period, which ends on October 14, 2025.

For enterprise users, the ESU program spans up to three years, with prices doubling each year. In the first year, ESUs cost $61 per device, then increase to $122 per device in the second year, and finally $244 per device in the third year.

For education institutions, the cost is $1 per device in the first year, $2 per device in the second year, and $4 per device in the third year.

Here’s a full breakdown created by Windows Latest:

Category Consumers Enterprise Education
Windows 10 End of Support (EOS) October 14, 2025 October 14, 2025 October 14, 2025
Extended Security Updates (ESU) Available for purchase; 1-year program for $30, starting closer to EOS date Available via Volume Licensing; 3-year. $61 (Year 1), $122 (Year 2), $244 (Year 3) Special education pricing: $1 per license (Year 1), $2 (Year 2), $4 (Year 3)
ESU Activation Options No details, but it has to be super-simple. Maybe via MS website or MS Store? 5-by-5 activation method, cloud-based (Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch), or included with Windows 365 Cloud-based option for schools/uni. Microsoft Intune and Windows Autopatch support.
Support Provided Under ESU Only security updates, no new features. Only security updates. Only security updates
Cloud-Based ESU Discounts N/A ~25% discount available through Intune or Autopatch for cloud-managed updates Available, especially for institutions using Intune for cloud management

Since it’s a one-year $30 plan for consumers, Microsoft may link the license to the Microsoft account and simplify the purchase and activation process.

Microsoft won’t tell us how you’ll be able to purchase the extended updates license, but Windows Latest understands it could be similar to how the company sold paid updates to Windows 7 businesses.

We expect Microsoft to make the paid updates program available directly through Microsoft’s site. You’ll continue to get updates through Windows Update once you’ve paid for the extended security service. However, remember that it’s a one-year program only, which means you’ll not be able to buy it again in October 2026.

Microsoft will likely release more details on this closer to 2025.

Windows 10 support dates and market share

It’s also worth noting that Windows 10 LTSC remains supported beyond these dates.

For those unaware, here’s a more comprehensive end-of-support table created by WindowsLatest:

Version Start Date Mainstream End Date Extended End Date
Windows 10 Home and Pro Jul 29, 2015 Oct 14, 2025 N/A
Windows 10 2015 LTSB Jul 29, 2015 Oct 13, 2020 Oct 14, 2025
Windows 10 2016 LTSB Aug 2, 2016 Oct 12, 2021 Oct 13, 2026
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 Nov 13, 2018 Jan 9, 2024 Jan 9, 2029
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 Nov 16, 2021 Jan 12, 2027 N/A

Windows 10 market share

As of October 2024, Windows 10 with 60.97% market share, followed by Windows 11 with 35.55%. Older versions have much smaller shares. Windows 7 has 2.62%, while Windows 8.1, Windows XP, and Windows 8 account for 0.31%, 0.28%, and 0.19%, respectively.

The post Microsoft: Pay $30 to keep using Windows 10 securely if you hate Windows 11 appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/31/microsoft-wants-you-to-pay-30-to-keep-using-windows-10-securely-if-you-dont-want-windows-11/feed/ 0
Bye USB, File Explorer gets Android storage integration on Windows 11, Windows 10 https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/28/bye-usb-file-explorer-gets-android-storage-integration-on-windows-11-windows-10/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/28/bye-usb-file-explorer-gets-android-storage-integration-on-windows-11-windows-10/#comments Mon, 28 Oct 2024 15:33:26 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=76545 Microsoft introduces Android integration in File Explorer for Windows 10 & 11, enabling seamless, wireless access to Android phone storage. Users can view, manage, and transfer files effortlessly.

The post Bye USB, File Explorer gets Android storage integration on Windows 11, Windows 10 appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
Microsoft’s Phone Link is already super helpful if you own an Android phone, and it keeps getting better with every update. I recently reported about Copilot and AI integration in Phone Link for Android messages. Now, Microsoft is rolling out the highly anticipated “Android in File Explorer” integration for everyone on Windows 11 (and Windows 10).

This feature is not directly a part of the “Phone Link” experience but rather part of the broader “Manage mobile devices.” Android integration in File Explorer is managed by a system component called “Cross-Device Experience Host”, which is maintained through Microsoft Store updates.

Android in Windows 11 File Explorer

Microsoft confirmed to Windows Latest that the feature started rolling out to everyone in October.

Android storage

In the coming days, most people should begin automatically seeing their Android phone storage in File Explorer. Microsoft told us. It seems to be a server-side update, so make sure you’re running the most recent versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11. Do not forget to update Cross-Device Experience Host from the Microsoft Store.

File Explorer Android storage shortcut
Android storage in File Explorer on Windows 10 | Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

In our tests, we noticed that the Android phone shortcut automatically appeared in our File Explorer on all devices, including Windows 10.

Previously, the feature was limited to testers with Windows 11, but Microsoft has now decided to roll it out to everyone, even those on Windows 10 in addition to Windows 11.

File Explorer’s Android integration is so well-executed that I’m amazed

Android storage integration in File Explorer is one of those Windows 11 cross-platform features that works really well. It works smoothly without hiccups over Wi-Fi, and I can now see all my documents, pictures, and files from my Android phone (Galaxy S23) in File Explorer.

Android integration in File Explorer
All phone’s internal storage folders and files appear in File Explorer | Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

It’s identical to accessing the storage using a USB cable, but thanks to deeper integration using Cross Device Experience Host, it’s completely wireless. It appears to be working over Wi-Fi, which means faster file transfer.

Accessing storage

With Windows 11’s Android integration, you can open File Explorer and notice your phone’s name on the left sidebar. When you click the shortcut, your phone’s internal storage opens in the File Explorer. This does not show up under “This PC”. You’ll find it on the sidebar only.

As I mentioned, it’s identical to sharing a phone’s storage with a PC using a USB cable, so you can browse all your folders and files. This includes your media, such as the DCIM folder, which contains camera pictures. But that’s not all.

File Explorer Android in Windows 10

You can also select folders or files and rename them. It will instantly reflect on your mobile.

Of course, you can copy or even delete the files or folders. It’s possible to move files between the folders of your phone’s internal storage or from your PC to your phone and vice versa.

In our tests, I tried moving a .ISO file to my phone storage, and the transfer speed was close to 1.20gbps:

File transfer using File Explorer Android integration
Moving Windows ISO from PC storage to the Documents folder on my Galaxy S23 at 1.17 GB/s.

What happens when you delete phone files using Windows 11? They simply appear in a new Recycle Bin folder on your phone and are automatically purged after 30 days.

Phone Storage in File Explorer

We also noticed that phone storage appears in Windows Search results, so it’s now possible to search for pictures, videos or files stored in your phone directly from the taskbar search.

What does it take to see Android phone storage in Windows 11 or 10?

To use the feature, you need to meet certain requirements and be lucky enough to be included in Microsoft’s staged rollout process.

Microsoft told me users can expect Android File Explorer integration to work when they meet the following system requirements:

  1. Android 11 or newer.
    Link to Windows
  2. Link to Windows on Android 1.24071 or newer.
    Cross Device Experience Host in Microsoft Store
  3. Make sure you’ve updated Cross Device Experience Host via the Microsoft Store (just check for updates, and it will reflect). You will not see anything when you click “Open”, so just keep checking for updates. Remember, it’s still rolling out.
  4. Double-check that your phone is linked under the “Mobile devices” page. On Windows 11, this is available under Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile Devices.
    Phone Storage in Windows 11
  5. On Windows 10, it’s separate and available directly via the Settings Home.

Mobile devices page in Windows 10

It’s not necessary that you use Phone Link app for the Android integration to work because as I mentioned at the outset, it’s part of the Cross Device Experience Host. Phone Link app is not needed for the integration to work.

The post Bye USB, File Explorer gets Android storage integration on Windows 11, Windows 10 appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/28/bye-usb-file-explorer-gets-android-storage-integration-on-windows-11-windows-10/feed/ 0
Windows 10 KB5045594 fixes Windows 11 BSODs (direct download .msu) https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/22/windows-10-kb5045594-fixes-windows-11-bsods-direct-download-msu/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/22/windows-10-kb5045594-fixes-windows-11-bsods-direct-download-msu/#comments Tue, 22 Oct 2024 17:36:11 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=76084 Windows 10 KB5045594 update is now available as an optional update for everyone willing to manually install it. It’s available via Windows Update, but as always, Microsoft has also posted direct download links for the KB5045594 offline installer (.msu) on the Microsoft Update Catalog. This is an important release because it fixes an issue where […]

The post Windows 10 KB5045594 fixes Windows 11 BSODs (direct download .msu) appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
Windows 10 KB5045594 update is now available as an optional update for everyone willing to manually install it. It’s available via Windows Update, but as always, Microsoft has also posted direct download links for the KB5045594 offline installer (.msu) on the Microsoft Update Catalog.

This is an important release because it fixes an issue where the Windows 11 upgrade crashes Windows 10 with BSOD. This update fixes issues related to the Start menu, printers, virtual machines, and more.

One of the noticeable changes is the introduction of a new account manager on the Start menu. You’ll now find the option to switch users by selecting the ellipses (…) next to “Sign out.” Additionally, the “Lock” option has been relocated to the power menu. However, this new feature will be gradually rolled out, meaning not everyone will see it immediately.

If you want to try Windows 10 KB5045594, go to Settings > Security & Updates section and click the Check for updates button.

Download Links for Windows 10 KB5045594

Windows 10 KB5045594 Direct Download Links: 64-bit and 32-bit (x86).

What’s new in Windows 10 Build 19045.5073

Windows 10 Build 19045.5073 also tackles issues for users with Multi-Function Printers (MFPs).

Some users experienced unwanted network command text being printed when using a USB connection, which has now been fixed.

Additionally, a problem where the scanner driver wouldn’t install via USB has also been addressed.

For those using virtual machines, a stop error caused by vmswitch when using Load Balancing and Failover (LBFO) teaming with two virtual switches on a virtual machine has been resolved. This issue occurred when one of the virtual switches used single root input/output virtualization (SR-IOV).

The most interesting fixes are related to errors while upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11, this update offers relief. A race condition that caused the stop error 0x3B during the upgrade process has now been fixed.

Here’s the full list of changes in Windows 10 KB5045594 update:

  • For those using WebView2 apps, a problem where Xbox 360 and Bluetooth controllers weren’t detected has been corrected.
  • This update also addresses a known issue with Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), where users faced a black screen and trouble signing out.

If you’re interested in installing the update, remember that it’s optional and won’t be automatically downloaded. To apply it, go to the Windows Update section in Settings, check for updates, and select “Download & Install.”

Otherwise, you can wait for these fixes to be included in the next cumulative update.

The post Windows 10 KB5045594 fixes Windows 11 BSODs (direct download .msu) appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/22/windows-10-kb5045594-fixes-windows-11-bsods-direct-download-msu/feed/ 0
Windows 10’s new Windows 11-like “About” page revamp is a UI disaster https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/15/windows-10s-new-windows-11-like-about-page-revamp-is-a-ui-disaster/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/15/windows-10s-new-windows-11-like-about-page-revamp-is-a-ui-disaster/#comments Tue, 15 Oct 2024 18:29:26 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=76025 Microsoft tests a new Settings design for the About page and adds the Account manager in the Start menu layout.

The post Windows 10’s new Windows 11-like “About” page revamp is a UI disaster appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
Windows 10 is supposed to be on the back burner, but it keeps getting new stuff, especially from Windows 11. We’ve seen Microsoft add features like Copilot to Windows 10, which was initially exclusive to Windows 11. Then, Microsoft added the “Microsoft account” manager to Windows 10. Now, it’s getting Windows 11’s About page UI.

Microsoft recently shipped a new update for testers in the Release Preview Cahnnel with an interesting change. The About section of the Settings app has a different UI, which makes it easy to check all the available components and system data. However, the problem with the new UI is that it doesn’t fit Windows 10’s UI guidelines.

Windows Latest compared the existing About page UI with the new one, and the change was pretty obvious. Unlike the old design, which has sections that describe Device and System specs, the new design lists all the hardware specs at the top. This includes the installed RAM, Processor, Graphics Card and Storage.

about page comparison in windows 10 22h2

This grid design is easy on the eyes and you can get a good idea of the basic hardware specs of the PC, including the GPU. The next design change is adding collapsible sections.

In Windows 10, the About page lists everything in one go, which can be confusing to understand if you’re new to Windows.

Windows 10 about page

Microsoft took a hint from Windows 11’s About page and now includes a collapsible section for Device Specifications and System Specifications.

It results in a neat and organized look. Even the Rename this PC option is now at the top, like Windows 11.

collapsible secitons in windows 11 about page

The Device Specifications section also bundles a few FAQs. These are nothing special and super generic, but might be helpful for a new user.

One thing that surprises us is the mixture of fluent UI and metro UI, which doesn’t look great at all. It looks flat and weird. We love its structure, but the color schemes and other elements don’t resemble a modern OS.

Still, it is surprising to see a design change in Windows 10 since it’s less than a year away from retirement. Microsoft also plans to bring the Windows 11 Account Manager in Start to Windows 10.

Account Manager in Start

Start menu with Microsoft manager
Start menu new layout in Windows 10 | Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

Windows 10 will get the Account Manager in Start with the October or November optional update.

The feature arrived late because Microsoft made several design changes. The Sign-out button is now visible at the top, and you can switch to another user account using the context menu.

Several other Start menu tweaks arrived with the October 2024 security update. The profile icon appears at a different position, and you’ll get a new background color for the left pane.

Special thanks to @Phantomofearth on X!

The post Windows 10’s new Windows 11-like “About” page revamp is a UI disaster appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/15/windows-10s-new-windows-11-like-about-page-revamp-is-a-ui-disaster/feed/ 0
Windows 10 KB5044273 out with Start menu changes (direct download .msu) https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/09/windows-10-kb5044273-out-with-start-menu-changes-direct-download-msu/ https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/09/windows-10-kb5044273-out-with-start-menu-changes-direct-download-msu/#comments Tue, 08 Oct 2024 23:04:32 +0000 https://www.windowslatest.com/?p=75910 Windows 10 KB5044273 is the October 2024 Patch with tons of bug fixes, but it also tries to experiment with Start menu UI changes.

The post Windows 10 KB5044273 out with Start menu changes (direct download .msu) appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
Windows 10 KB5044273 is the October 2024 Patch with tons of bug fixes, but it also tries to experiment with Start menu UI changes. Microsoft is seeding the update via Windows Update, and it also published direct download links for KB5044273 offline installers (.msu) on the Microsoft Update Catalog,

Like every other security update, it’s quite obvious that Windows 10 KB5044273 will automatically begin downloading and then installing in the coming hours. As soon as you install the update, you’ll notice that the Build number has bumped to Build 19045.5011 or 19044.5011 if you’re still on the older version.

The official release notes state that Microsoft has made “security improvements to internal OS functionality”, but there are more than just security fixes. In our tests, Windows Latest observed that KB5044273 tries to move the profile picture icon to different positions in the Start menu, as part of its efforts to integrate Windows 11-like Microsoft account manager.

Interesting, right? However, only some of you will see the new profile icon location, which can move from bottom to top.

If you check for updates today, you’ll see the October 2024 Patch listed as “2024-10 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version 22H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5044273),” followed by the .NET Framework security patch. This is labelled as “2024-10 Cumulative Update for .NET Framework 3.5, 4.8 and 4.8.1 for Windows 10 Version 22H2 for x64 (KB5044091).”

KB5044273 Windows 10 update

As shown in the above screenshot, all the updates that we mentioned automatically show up when you check for updates, but in case they fail to show, you can use the .msu offline installers:

Download Links for Windows 10 KB5044273

Windows 10 KB5044273 Direct Download Links: 64-bit and 32-bit (x86).

What’s new in Windows 10 Build 19045.5011

As mentioned, the most significant change in Windows 10 Build 19045.5011 is related to the new profile icon placement within the Start menu.

KB5044273 tests new Start menu UI
Start menu with new account manager UX | Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

For example, in our tests, we observed that the profile icon has now moved to the top left sidebar, also known as the navigation pane.

Start menu with Microsoft manager
Start menu new layout in Windows 10 | Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

KB5044273 doesn’t add the full-fledged Microsoft account to our Windows 10 installations, but that’s also coming. In one of the builds, Windows Latest previously spotted a full-fledged Microsoft account manager in the Windows 10 Start menu.

Like its Windows 11 counterpart, it will also highlight the usage of OneDrive, Copilot, Microsoft 365, and other products.

Microsoft is dead serious about adding a Microsoft account manager to all of its products, and it has already been rolled out to everyone with Windows 11 24H2.

In addition to Start menu UI experiments, Microsoft has fixed an issue that causes Edge to stop working when you’re using Internet Explorer mode. For those unaware, advanced users or businesses still have the option to go back to Internet Explorer experience in Edge using IE mode, but the integration has some rough edges.

Microsoft has also fixed a bug related to the playback of media files, such as videos or audio. A bug previously caused media files to suddenly stop working when you turned on the surround sound feature.

With Windows 10 KB5044273, Microsoft is finally reducing the single sign-on pop-ups in Windows 10. Previously, when you tried to open an app that could use a Microsoft account for sign-in, it prompted you to use or decline a Microsoft account every few days.

This wasn’t very pleasant, and people in the European region disliked the frequency, which is finally getting a fix with the October 2024 Patch.

Here’s the full list of other improvements and fixes in KB5044273:

  • A bug that causes the Windows server to stop responding when you use Explorer has been fixed.
  • A new feature adds Windows update-related notifications that appear after you sign in.

As for known issues, Microsoft is not aware of any new bug except an underlying issue that causes errors when you try to change the local profile icon.

The post Windows 10 KB5044273 out with Start menu changes (direct download .msu) appeared first on Windows Latest

]]>
https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/09/windows-10-kb5044273-out-with-start-menu-changes-direct-download-msu/feed/ 0