Windows 11 Enhances iPhone Integration with New Start Menu Features
Microsoft brings iPhone integration to Windows 11's Start menu, offering direct access to phone status, contacts, and file transfers. The update narrows the feature gap between iPhone and Android users, though it's currently limited to Windows Insider builds.
Oracle and Microsoft Eye Global TikTok Acquisition Amid National Security Concerns
Software giants Oracle and Microsoft are in talks to acquire TikTok's global operations while allowing ByteDance to retain a minority stake. The White House-brokered deal aims to address national security concerns through American majority ownership and Oracle's oversight of TikTok's core operations.
Microsoft's 365 Copilot Launch Faces Backlash Over Forced AI and Price Hikes
Microsoft's rollout of 365 Copilot has sparked widespread criticism due to unexpected 30% price increases and mandatory AI features. Users worldwide are protesting the lack of transparency, technical issues, and limited opt-out options in this major productivity suite overhaul.
Linux Kernel Update Adds Support for Microsoft Copilot Key and Gaming Controllers
Linux kernel 6.14 introduces native support for the dedicated Microsoft Copilot key found on modern Windows laptops, alongside expanded game controller compatibility. The update properly maps the F23 key for AI assistant functionality while adding support for multiple new gaming peripherals.
Gaming Pioneer: Doom Successfully Ported to Microsoft Word Document
Software engineer creates a groundbreaking port of the classic Doom game that runs entirely within a Microsoft Word document. The 6.6MB standalone file maintains faithful graphics and smooth gameplay, though lacking sound, showcasing the versatility of both Word's macro system and Doom's engine.
Microsoft Mandates Copilot AI in Office Apps with Price Hike
Microsoft announces first price increase in 12 years for Microsoft 365 subscriptions, bundling mandatory Copilot AI features across Office applications. The $3 monthly increase affects 84 million consumers, though temporary opt-out options are available through limited 'Classic' plans.
Microsoft 365 Price Hike Hits Asia-Pacific Users with Up to 46% Increase
Microsoft announces significant price increases for Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions across six Asia-Pacific countries, citing AI feature investments. The changes see Australian users facing up to 46% higher costs while other regions remain unaffected for now.
SteamOS: The Rising Threat to Microsoft's Gaming Empire
Valve's SteamOS is emerging as a formidable challenger to Windows' dominance in PC gaming, fueled by Steam Deck's success and growing hardware partnerships. As manufacturers embrace the Linux-based platform, Microsoft faces unprecedented pressure to defend its gaming ecosystem or risk losing market share.
Microsoft's Small AI Models Outperform OpenAI in Complex Mathematics
Microsoft researchers have developed rStar-Math, a groundbreaking technique enabling smaller AI models to solve advanced mathematical problems with exceptional accuracy. When applied to compact models like Phi-3 mini, the technique achieved up to 90% accuracy, surpassing OpenAI's larger models.
Microsoft Initiates Performance-Based Layoffs Affecting Less Than 1% of Workforce
Microsoft has confirmed targeted job cuts impacting under 1% of its 228,000 employees, based on performance reviews. The tech giant emphasizes these reductions are part of its regular talent management process, while maintaining optimistic revenue projections driven by AI infrastructure expansion.