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Widgets, new with Windows 11, aim to make your life easier by focusing on what you want to know. They help you zero in on what’s going on in your life and in the world, at a glance. The Windows Resource Center has picked 11 example Widgets to show you their power and versatility. They include Calendar, Entertainment, Sports, Traffic and more. Head over to the post to check them all out. Continue reading...

Available starting Thursday, the Microsoft Flight Simulator Game of the Year Edition is a free update for existing players on PC and Xbox Series X|S. The update includes five new handcrafted aircraft, eight new airports, six new Discovery Flights and updated weather systems. It incorporates all six World Updates. Head over to Xbox Wire to dive deeper into what you can expect when you update the simulator. If you don’t yet have the game, you can buy the Microsoft Flight Simulator Game of the Year Edition, a great entry point to flight simming. Continue reading...

This year truly has felt like it’s flown by. I cannot believe we’re only six weeks away from the end of the year. Even crazier that come January, it will be two years since we launched Microsoft Edge. As our two-year anniversary approaches, I am excited to share with you how we continue to make Microsoft Edge the browser that puts you and your loved ones first. One area we’ve been focused on is making your shopping experience fast and seamless. A year ago, we announced our built-in autofill coupons feature and proactive price comparisons in certain countries to help you save time and money while shopping online. We’ve also continued to add to our suite of shopping features by introducing more built-in tools to help you plan your next purchase by providing historical trends of prices on products. We’ve also given you easy access to expert reviews and customer ratings, and we’ve made the guest checkout process more streamlined. This month, we’re introducing new shopping features to help you finish up (or maybe start?) that holiday shopping, including some that we’re now bringing to Microsoft Edge on mobile. Microsoft Bing also plays a big role in making Microsoft Edge the best browser for shopping this holiday, so we’re excited to share the latest there as well. Lastly, because we not only look to save you time and money while shopping, we’re also introducing our latest features to help keep you safer online. Here’s what’s new in web experiences this month: Let Microsoft Edge help you keep an eye on the price https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/W11_Edge_Shopping_Reminders_16x9_en-US.gif I haven’t been shy about my love of shopping online but let’s be honest, shopping for the holidays can be overwhelming. We’re shopping for multiple people from a variety of retailers and at the same time keeping track of the many sales going on to make sure we stay on budget. It’s easy to lose track, especially when we’re so busy handling other aspects of our lives. Microsoft Edge is here to alleviate some of the stress by helping you keep an eye on products you’ve recently viewed and alert you of price changes. This feature is coming soon and will be built into the browser, so you just need to browse as you normally would, and Microsoft Edge will let you know if any of the items you’ve recently looked at have changed in price. This eliminates having to check back on each product yourself, especially during the holidays when your online shopping list is probably very long. This feature, combined with our other built-in tools like price comparison, price history, easy access to customer ratings and expert reviews, and our auto-fill coupons tool, it’s as if Microsoft Edge became the personal shopping assistant you’ve always needed. Not only helping you save money, but also time. If you haven’t used our browser for shopping yet, right now is a really good time to take it for a test run! You won’t be disappointed. Shop online with Microsoft Edge and Bing – and make a difference Now more than ever, it is important that we make more environmentally conscious choices in order to leave a better legacy for future generations. This is why we’re thrilled to announce a new shopping experience on Microsoft Bing that can help you choose ethically sourced products wherever you are on the web. Microsoft Bing has partnered with Good On You, a platform that rates fashion brands based on their performance on a host of sustainability and social responsibility metrics. If you live in the U.K., these scores are now available so you can filter results when shopping on Microsoft Bing, helping you shop with confidence that you are making ethical choices that align to your values. Beyond this, Microsoft Edge is committed to giving back to the future of our planet. Coming soon, for every 10 purchases made in Microsoft Edge at eligible retailers, we will make a donation to the Eden Reforestation Project for planting trees*. Not only is planting trees good for the environment, but by vetting locations and partnering with a company that hires local experts, we’re making sure we’re approaching the problem holistically while also benefiting local communities. These features are just our first step in creating more sustainable shopping options for you; they’re available in the U.K. only for now, and we expect to roll them out to additional markets soon. Price comparison and price history now available on-the-go I get a lot of my shopping done on my mobile phone and I’m sure you do as well. That is why, at Microsoft Edge, we’re working very hard to bring all those handy shopping features that we have on our desktop browser to your mobile device. Our built-in coupons feature is already on Microsoft Edge on iOS and Android and, this month, we’re also bringing our built-in price comparison and price history tools to Microsoft Edge on Android. Now, you can be confident you have the best price on that one gift that your child just has to have, and you can also plan your future purchases with price history – all from your Android smartphone. We’re working very hard at bringing the rest of the features to your Microsoft Edge mobile app, so stay tuned for more on additional releases in future editions of this blog. Stay safer while shopping online this holiday season https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/W11_Edge_PW-Update_16x9_en-US.gif Look, we love saving you time and money, but your online safety also remains a top priority. On a recent blog, we talked to you about keeping your password information secure with features like our password health dashboard and Password Monitor. When you use these features, you can keep an eye on any potential leaked credentials and make sure that the passwords you’re setting are strong and not being repeated across sites. Today, I am excited to announce easy update, a feature we’re piloting to make it easier for you to update your passwords. Should any of your saved credentials become compromised or need to be updated due to lack of strength/reused across multiple sites, you will now have the option to update passwords with just one click. Simply navigate to the Settings/Passwords page within Microsoft Edge and click on Change right next to the credentials you’d like to update. This will take you directly to the change password page of the account in question. And with password generator, Microsoft Edge will even create a brand new, strong password for you and save it to continue to monitor on your behalf. Easy update is only available across a limited number of sites to start, but we will be working diligently to expand this list in the coming months. This is just another way in which Microsoft Edge is the fast and secure browser that helps you save time and money. Rewards just got simpler https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/W11_MSFT_Rewards_16x9_en-US.gif I am a huge fan of Microsoft Rewards. If you aren’t familiar with Microsoft Rewards, it is a loyalty program that gives you points for searching in Microsoft Edge, shopping or gaming with Microsoft. You’re able to collect Rewards points which you can then redeem for gift cards, sweepstakes, exclusives and more. My personal favorite, you can also donate those points to an eligible nonprofit and help make a difference. Awesome, right? Well, we want to make it easier for you to join Microsoft Rewards. That’s why we’re now giving you the option to pin the Rewards experience to the Microsoft Edge tool bar. You can do this by opening the three-dot menu in Microsoft Edge, right clicking on the Microsoft Rewards option and selecting “show in toolbar.” You can also turn on the Rewards experience by enabling the “Microsoft Rewards button” in the Microsoft Edge Appearance settings. From there, you’ll be able to join with one click and start earning points today. Learn more about Microsoft Rewards. Get the most out of your battery life with efficiency mode https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/W11_Edge_Efficiency_Mode_16x9_en-US.gif I’ve been spending a lot of time on the go recently, taking kids to soccer practice and coding classes. These usually take place during the day, which usually leads me to sit in my parked car getting work and some of my holiday shopping done. In those cases, it is really important that I maximize my battery life so I can get as much done as possible during those hours. This is why I am excited to introduce efficiency mode in Microsoft Edge. When your device’s battery is low, Microsoft Edge will set itself to efficiency mode and significantly reduce system resource usage like CPU and RAM, extending battery life and helping you get more done while on the go. Thank you, as always, for reading. I am so grateful for all of you and for all that you do! Please continue to send us your feedback as we work to make the web more innovative and open for everyone. I hope that our latest shopping features help you get that holiday shopping done. More importantly, I hope you enjoy the rest of the year with your friends and family. Notes: * For every 10 purchases made in the Microsoft Edge browser through 30 November 2022, Microsoft will contribute funds to have one tree planted through our partnership with the Eden Reforestation Projects, up to a total of £150,000. Visit edenprojects.org for more information about their work. Applicable to online purchases from within the U.K., of products only, and through eligible stores as indicated on qualifying sites. Microsoft reserves the right to cancel, change or suspend this program at any time without notice. Continue reading...

Caves & Cliffs fans take note: Part II is coming Nov. 30. The update provides a makeover to the mountains and caves you know and love, with updated terrain generation, higher peaks, more elaborate cave systems and larger ore veins. And for those of you who find caves somewhat dark, the update brings candles for everyone. Caves & Cliffs Update: Part II will be available on Minecraft: Bedrock Edition on Windows 10, Windows 11, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and more. For all the details, head over to Minecraft.net. Continue reading...

The holiday season is a time for deeper connection with family and friends—something we’ve come to appreciate even more with the challenges of the past two years. I’m inspired by the resilience of humanity and by the incredible spirit of innovation that’s enabled us to find new ways of being, doing, connecting and enjoying the company of others, at work and play, in person and virtually. I’m also grateful. Grateful to work in this world of technology innovation every day. Grateful for the brilliant team who reimagined an elegantly simple, yet powerful, Windows 11 that delivers experiences people love. Grateful for our ecosystem of partners who are creating amazing new devices that bring those experiences to life. Here are just a few of the new PCs that make the most of all that Windows 11 has to offer—like the built-in Chat for Microsoft Teams app, customizable Widgets that provide bite-sized information at-a-glance, and Snap, which helps users easily create the Windows layout that feels most intuitive. All this, plus quick access to services like Microsoft 365 and Xbox Game Pass, give us ready tools and personalized experiences for more connection, fun and creativity. With features for the mobile professional, remote worker, creator and gamer, there’s something for everyone on your holiday list. Acer Swift 3 https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/Swift-3-SF314-511_silver-left-facing-1024x619.jpg For those shopping for a hybrid worker, commuter or re-emerging road warrior, the ultra-portable Acer Swift 3 delivers powerful mobile experiences in a thin and light laptop that’s perfect for accomplishing more on the go. Powered by either the 11th Gen Intel Core Processor or AMD Ryzen 5000 Series Mobile Processors, the Swift 3 keeps people connected with best-in-class Wi-Fi and extra-long battery life. With fast-charging, it provides up to four hours of use on just a 30-minute charge. A fingerprint reader simplifies secure login to the familiar experiences of Windows 11. Black Friday Deal: Take $100 off this model, live on Nov. 26. Shop now. ASUS ZenBook Flip 13 OLED https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/ZenBook-Flip-13_UX363_Product-photo_2G_Pine-Grey_22-1024x1024.jpg Another great option featuring the Intel Evo platform design and an 11th Gen Intel Core Processor, the ASUS ZenBook Flip 13 OLED offers an all-new, distinctively elegant design that combines ultimate portability with supreme versatility. With a sleek OLED touchscreen and 360-degree ErgoLift hinge that allows it to be used as a laptop, tablet, tent, stand or anything in between, the ZenBook Flip 13 OLED is as impressively stylish as it is useful. The super-slim chassis manages to house a wide range of I/O ports for easy connectivity. With an 11-hour battery and Windows 11, the ZenBook Flip 13 OLED offers the perfect combination of flexible performance and effortless mobility that adapts seamlessly to a user’s personal style, helping them stay connected on the road, at the office or lounging on the couch. Black Friday Deal: At Amazon.com the ZenBook Flip 13 OLED will be $179 off, promotion running on Cyber Monday, Nov. 29. Shop now. Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/Dell-XPS-13-2-in-1-Laptop-1-1024x752.png For the person who wants powerful performance in a thin and light laptop, the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 provides both speed and intelligence with an 11th Gen Intel Core Processor built on the Intel Evo platform with the flexibility of Windows 11. Dell co-engineered this laptop with Intel, using the latest Intel Dynamic Tuning Technology. This 2-in-1 adaptive performance technology actively changes the power of its CPU to optimize specific workloads—think streaming video, communication and gaming traffic—in the system to enable easy, fast and smooth online experiences. Users can stay unplugged longer, streaming content for up to 14 hours on an FHD+ model. Black Friday Deal: Take $350 off live now through Black Friday. Shop now. HP Pavilion x360 14 https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/21C1_Pavilion_Slinky_14_FF_NaturalSilver_FPR_WLAN_Win11_CoreSet_Tent-1024x870.jpg With versatility, simplicity and sustainability, the HP Pavilion x360 14 is the perfect laptop for the person who wants a reliable, lightweight laptop that brings out the best of Windows 11. Built with the environment in mind, this lightweight PC is one of HP’s most sustainably manufactured consumer laptops to date. Users can stream content or game from anywhere with an Intel Core processor, optional Wi-Fi 6 for reliable connectivity and a flexible micro-edge display with a 360-degree hinge to watch or play in laptop, tent or tablet mode. With Voice Assistance and OMEN Gaming Hub preinstalled, entertainment and accessibility go hand in hand. Black Friday Deal: Check for discounted pricing through Best Buy (warm gold) and Amazon (silver). Shop now. Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 laptop https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/Lenovo-Yoga-7i_15inch_Left_Tablet-1024x768.png Whether they love to binge-watch their favorite series or get into the creative flow, your holiday gift recipient will love the performance and style of the Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 laptop. With the advanced mobile performance of an 11th Gen Intel Core Processor and Intel Iris Xe graphics, this flexible touchscreen laptop has a 360-degree hinge that also allows it to be used as a tablet. Offered in Slate Grey or Dark Moss, with rounded edges that feel extra-comfortable in hand, it’s high on style. Multimedia absolutely pops on its Full HD IPS display and user-facing Dolby Atmos speaker system. A fingerprint reader keeps logins secure, while optimized battery life, rapid charging and super-fast Wi-Fi 6 keeps you reliably connected. Black Friday Deal: Find discounts on the Yoga 7i 2-in-1 through Lenovo’s “Black Friday Starts Now” sale, running Nov. 15 – 26. Shop now. Razer Blade 15 Advanced https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/Blade-Adv-2021-Render-4-1024x576.png The Razer Blade 15 Advanced is a sleek laptop that includes loads of features the gamers on your list will love. With Intel’s 11th Generation Tiger Lake-H Core i7 or i9 processor, a 15.6-inch display ranging from Full-HD to 4K powered with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 graphics and high-refresh screen options up to 360Hz, this light but powerful laptop delivers a supreme Windows 11 gaming experience. The all-metal build looks thin and smooth on the outside and is protected with a fingerprint-resistant coating, yet packs 1 TB of storage. The Razer Blade 15 also sports Razer’s industry-leading touchpad, a 1080p webcam, and an all-new keyboard with signature Razer Chroma per-key customizable RGB backlighting, giving your gamer the power of personalization. Black Friday Deal: Take $1,200 off the week of Nov. 21. Shop now. Samsung Galaxy Book Go https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/Galaxy-Book-Go_US-Keyboard-3-1024x683.png For your loved one who wants seamless communication, sustained productivity and immersive entertainment—all in one device, Samsung offers the affordable and powerful Galaxy Book Go and Galaxy Book Go 5G. The Galaxy Book Go is powered by the energy efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 compute platform and the Galaxy Book Go 5G features the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8x Gen 2 5G that delivers lightning-fast connectivity speeds. Users will enjoy instant-on performance that draws less power with up to 18 hours of battery life, and a quiet, fan-less experience. The large 14-inch display enhances entertainment and makes work sessions easier on the eyes. And because the Galaxy ecosystem is built to work together, users can switch between their Samsung Galaxy Book Go and Galaxy smartphone, or use features like second screen with a Galaxy Tab for seamless dual-screen productivity between devices. Black Friday deal: Receive a $100 instant rebate on your Galaxy Book Go between Nov. 19 – 29. Shop now. In our increasingly hybrid world, our devices help us bridge the distances between us. This broad lineup brings forward the best of Windows 11 so you can give your loved ones the gift of connection in a way that is both innovative and familiar, while also discovering bright new experiences this holiday season. Continue reading...

Age of Empires IV became available on Oct. 28, and the first patch for it officially released earlier this week. So what’s next? The game’s developers at World’s Edge and Relic Entertainment released a roadmap on Wednesday providing a quick glimpse at some of their plans for Winter 2021 and Spring 2022, as well as some feature requests the team is tracking based on your feedback. Head over to Xbox Wire to see what's coming. And turning from the future to today, be sure to check out Xbox Wire’s collection of tips to help get your Age of Empires IV army up to speed. Continue reading...

Eighty-eight percent of millennial moms would prefer to have more quality time with family and friends this holiday season than to spend time shopping for gifts This year, Microsoft Store is on a mission to minimize holiday planning stress for moms so they can be more present for what matters—spending time with family and friends. To better understand and learn how to offer support, Microsoft Store commissioned a survey of 1,000 millennial moms in partnership with Wakefield Research* to find out what moms really want this holiday season. The results put a spotlight on mom’s holiday “mental load.” Read on to learn more about the survey and how Microsoft Store is here to help with tips, personal shopping, deals and more. Moms are feeling extra pressure this holiday Nearly two-thirds (65%) of millennial moms say their family doesn’t realize how much time and effort they put into the holidays and 80% are feeling pressure to make the 2021 holidays even more special this year. Top reasons millennial moms feel pressure this holiday season include the costs of gifts and activities (57%), pressure to make up for experiences missed during the pandemic (41%), and gifts not arriving in time because of shipping delays (38%). For some relief, Microsoft Store is offering Black Friday deals and a holiday promise of free two-three day shipping with no purchase minimum, extended returns, extended low price promise and flexible payment options. While you browse for gifts, Microsoft Edge helps to ensure you get the best deals, thanks to its Coupons, Price Comparison and Price History features. https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/Less-Stress-Infographic_FINAL.png Spotlight on holiday task mastering While laughable, it’s no joke that 39% of millennial moms say they’re more likely to win the lottery than have a family member take the lead in holiday prep. Virtually all millennial moms (99%) take the lead on at least one task, especially purchasing gifts (84%), decorating (82%) and wrapping gifts (82%). Moms are also spending their free time looking for the perfect gifts. Millennial moms anticipate spending an average of 14 hours shopping and planning for gifts this holiday season, and 51% admit they spend countless hours thinking of the ideal gift for their children. However, nearly all millennial moms (88%) would rather spend more quality time with family and friends this holiday season than shop for gifts. Microsoft Store can help with personal shopping, available seven days a week through live, scheduled or on-demand chat. Whether you’re looking for the right Windows 11 powered computer or tablet, Microsoft 365 plan or gaming console and accessories, Microsoft Store product experts are here to help. They can help you choose the perfect gift, set up your device or console and even learn how to use your new tech with online trainings and workshops. Shopping smarter not harder A majority (86%) of millennial moms plan to lighten their holiday load this year. More than four in five moms who take the lead on holiday tasks (81%) say they’re eager to unload a holiday task to someone else this holiday season. Three out of four say they plan to streamline gift shopping. More than half of millennial moms (51%) plan to shop exclusively online for holiday gifts this year and 70% are considering digital gift options. Specifically, millennial moms are planning to purchase gift cards (39%) or ask for shopping links attached to holiday wish lists (26%). Missed someone on your list? Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Microsoft Gift Cards are the perfect gift for those who want to skip the shipping stress or if you’ve missed the shipping cutoff. With all these tips from Microsoft Store, you can focus more on moments and less on stress this year. Whether you’re gathering in-person, online or both, Microsoft Store can help, leaving more time for the ones you love. ### * The Microsoft Store Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1,000 nationally representative U.S. millennial moms, defined as those ages 25-40 with children ages 17 or under, between Oct. 19 and Oct. 25, 2021, using an email invitation and an online survey. Data has been weighted to ensure accurate representation of U.S. millennial moms. Continue reading...

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World, the Magic Kingdom has come to Minecraft. Just like the real park in Orlando, Florida, the Minecraft x Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom Adventure DLC map is large and varied. Filled to the brim with familiar Disney and Pixar faces, iconic attractions and magical scenery, the map includes fan-favorite attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Space Mountain and more. For all the details and images, head over to Minecraft.net. Continue reading...

Today marks the beginning of the Windows 10 November 2021 Update availability. We continue to listen to customer feedback to adapt Windows to meet your needs as part of our ongoing support for Windows 10, and have scoped the November 2021 Update to focus on productivity, management and security. Today, I’m sharing how we will deliver the November 2021 Update, how to get it, details on the revised Windows 10 update release cadence including the new Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) edition, and some positive news on the pace of the Windows 11 rollout. Our approach to update availability and rollout Hybrid and remote environments for working, learning and playing have become the new normal, and we understand how important and central your PC is to your life. As a result, we are taking the same measured approach to the rollout of the November 2021 Update as we have with previous releases, to help enable a smooth update. We will be throttling up availability over the coming weeks to ensure a reliable download experience for all, so the update may not be offered to you right away. In these cases, we will not offer the feature update until we are confident that you will have a good update experience. How to get the Windows 10 November 2021 Update The November 2021 Update is available initially to users with select devices running Windows 10, version 2004 or later who are interested in the latest features and are ready to install this release on their device. If you would like to install the new release, open your Windows Update settings (Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update) and select Check for updates. Eligible devices may also be offered the option to choose the Windows 11 upgrade. If the update appears, you can simply select Download and install to get started. Once the download is complete and the feature update is ready to install, we’ll notify you so that you can pick a convenient time to finish the installation and reboot your device, ensuring that the update does not disrupt your activities. Devices running Windows 10, version 2004 or later will have a faster overall update experience with the November 2021 update, because the update will install like a monthly update. For more information on how to get the November 2021 Update, watch this video. To learn more about the status of the November 2021 Update rollout, known issues and new information, visit Windows release health. Release cadence and support We will transition to a new Windows 10 release cadence to align with the Windows 11 cadence, targeting annual feature update releases. We are now renaming the servicing option for releases to the General Availability Channel starting with the November 2021 Update (Note: this replaces the previous “Semi-Annual Channel” term for the servicing option). The next Windows 10 feature update is slated for the second half of 2022. We will continue to support at least one version of Windows 10 through Oct. 14, 2025. As a second half (H2) of the calendar year release, Home and Pro editions of the November 2021 Update will receive 18 months of servicing and support, and Enterprise and Education editions will receive 30 months of servicing and support beginning today. Information for commercial customers We recommend that commercial organizations begin targeted deployments to validate that their apps, devices and infrastructure work as expected with the new release. Windows 10, version 21H2 is now available through Windows Server Update Services (including Configuration Manager), Windows Update for Business and the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC)[1]. You can find more information on IT tools to support Windows 10, version 21H2 in the Windows IT Pro Blog. Today also marks the availability of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, which provides customers with access to an option for their special-purpose devices and environments, such as manufacturing or healthcare systems, or other uses which require longer term device update stability. This new client LTSC edition is supported for five years (Note: the new Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 edition is also available today and has a 10-year support lifecycle). Staying protected and productive I have often previously noted that being on the latest version of Windows provides you with the latest features, security improvements and control. We recommend that you update your devices to the latest version of Windows 10 or upgrade eligible devices to Windows 11. Today, based on the positive rollout update experience and user feedback we have seen to date, we are advancing the pace of the rollout faster than we previously anticipated, and are now making the Windows 11 upgrade more broadly available to eligible Windows 10 devices[2]. As a reminder, all editions of Windows 10, version 2004 will reach end of servicing on Dec. 14, 2021, and Enterprise and Education editions of Windows 10, version 1909 will reach end of servicing on May 10, 2022. After these dates, devices running versions 1909 and 2004 will no longer receive monthly security and quality updates containing protections from the latest security threats. We will closely monitor both the Windows 10 November 2021 Update and the Windows 11 upgrade experiences and share timely information on their rollout status and known issues (open and resolved) across both feature and monthly updates via the Windows release health hub and @WindowsUpdate. Please continue to tell us about your experience by providing comments or suggestions via Feedback Hub. Note: [1] It may take a day for downloads to be fully available in the Volume Licensing Service Center across all products, markets and languages. [2] Eligible Windows 10 devices must be on version 2004 or later, and have installed the Sept. 14, 2021, security update or later, to upgrade directly to Windows 11. Continue reading...

As a thank you to the Xbox community for 20 years of support, 343 Industries has launched the free-to-play Halo Infinite Multiplayer Beta and Season 1 three weeks early, available starting now for all players on Windows PC, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. It will also be available via Xbox Cloud Gaming later on Monday. Players can enjoy the Season 1 content including all maps, core modes, Academy features and Battle Pass, and all of their progress carries over into the full Halo Infinite launch on Dec. 8. Head over to Xbox Wire for details. Continue reading...

The holidays are a whirlwind of activity, joy, color and connection—all that energy can be the spark for endless inspiration. Windows 11, designed to bring you closer to what you love, empower your productivity and inspire your creativity, has the tools for creators of all kinds to put their personal stamp on the season. The devices we use daily to connect, work, shop, create and relax are a perfect place to begin. [caption id=attachment_176540" align="alignright" width="200]https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/desktopwallpaper2.jpg Windows 11 aims to help users make the most of inspiration and opportunities in the moment with experiences optimized for how they work, learn, play and express themselves. It prioritizes how individuals engage with their devices, featuring apps that work together seamlessly. Users feel instantly at home on an operating system that is coherent and calm, and feels familiar. Start the holidays with these principles in mind—and a uniquely festive background to match. Download Brisseaux’s background today to add dimension to your device and all the ways you can use it to create and connect this season. Continue reading...

Flying commuter aircraft is an intensive endeavor in both the real and virtual worlds. One famous example is the Bombardier (nowadays Mitsubishi) CRJ line that carries 50 to 100 passengers. Now available to Microsoft Flight Simulator players on PC, Xbox and with Xbox Game Pass, the new CRJ can be found in the simulator marketplace. Head over to Xbox Wire to watch the video and find details about the aircraft and flying experience. Continue reading...

As a child growing up in Arizona, Carissa Cabrera loved being outside. She’d go to parks with her sister and other neighborhood kids until the streetlights turned on. As she got older, she’d take swimming lessons and go to California beaches with her family – her first exposure to the ocean, which would become the focus of her life’s work. “I think that's where the fascination started,” says Cabrera, 27, a marine conservation biologist now based in Hawaii. But as a teen, it was an award-winning documentary that she watched for an AP English assignment that set her on her current path. “I know a lot of people get to marine biology without that distinct aha moment, but that was mine,” says Cabrera, who had focused on photography as a career possibility before watching the film. “It speaks to the power of films, and how much they can influence viewers’ mindsets.” Though she had a scholarship to an in-state university, she worked as a waitress in college to pay her rent. Through her studies, she learned about the threats to the ocean, such as overfishing and oil spills, which really put her on track for conservation. But since she didn’t have the advantages of other marine biology students who attended coastal schools, she found opportunities outside of the classroom: working at a planetarium’s marine discovery lab, an internship at a zoo, joining her campus’ Marine Awareness and Conservation Society and trips to Mexico to do fieldwork in the ocean. She also saved up to study abroad and went to the Galapagos Islands. Her undergraduate degree was in evolutionary and ecological biology from the University of Arizona. https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/R7A7212-200x300.jpgHer four-person team believes everyone can be a marine conservationist – and that you don't have to be a scientist to help. “Every single person has a role to play when it comes to saving our oceans and you do not have to wait eight years to get your master’s degree to start doing that. And honestly, we don't have the time for that,” Cabrera says. “It's an inclusive philosophy when it comes to conservation.” She creates environmental content mainly for her website, podcast and TikTok channel, where she shares tips on everyday ways to practice zero waste, sustainability and recycling. But she also shares snips of her life in Hawaii, her travels and the wildlife she encounters in the water, such as sea turtles. “You really want people to feel inspired by the ocean and excited,” she says. “And then you can start introducing the stuff we really need to take action on. But no one is going to protect anything they don't care about.” All photos except for Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 7i Pro standalone courtesy of Carissa Cabrera. Continue reading...

Both Football Manager 2022 and Football Manager 2022 Xbox Edition are available now with Xbox Game Pass. Members can immerse themselves in Football Manager 2022, which puts you in control of forging a path to the top of the game, meeting the expectations of owners and handling the scrutiny of the media along the way. Football Manager 2022 Xbox Edition is available with both Xbox Game Pass for PC and Game Pass for Console. Head over to Xbox Wire for details, images and to watch the trailer. Continue reading...

Hey Minecraft fans: are you in the mood for a pink blouse, chain bracelets and creeper face mask? Or maybe a ragged scarf and brown boots? You’re in luck; different tops, bottoms, outerwear, gloves, accessories and footwear are now available for you to mix and match thanks to a slew of free Items that just dropped in the Character Creator dressing room. Head over to Mincraft.net to find out how to get your virtual hands on the new items. Continue reading...

Microsoft introduced on Tuesday Windows 11 SE, built specifically to support the K-8 classroom, and announced an ecosystem of Windows 11 SE devices. The devices include the new Surface Laptop SE, custom built for students and starting at $249, as well as devices coming from Acer, ASUS, Dell, Dynabook, Fujitsu, HP, JK-IP, Lenovo and Positivo, powered by Intel and AMD. “We have heard from educators that they need options that are simpler, secure and work on more affordable devices,” says Paige Johnson, vice president of Education Marketing, in a blog post. “This expanded portfolio complements our current Windows 11 devices for learning, providing even more choices for schools to have the tools, insights and controls they need to deliver optimal learning experiences, at a price that broadens access to Microsoft performance, security and reliability.” Microsoft expects the majority of devices to be available for ordering through education channels later this year and into 2022, aligned with the education buying season. To find out more and see the video, head over to the Microsoft Education Blog. Continue reading...

Lots of kids face especially tough challenges in school – whether it’s due to neurodiversity, physical disabilities or the challenges of poverty. A new feature story from the Microsoft Stories team describes how teachers are finding that tech tools can be used as leveling blocks to help address many of the different kinds of inequity in schools. Introduced on Tuesday, the new edition of the Windows 11 operating system, Windows 11 SE, and the lower-cost devices it supports, such as the Surface Laptop SE and others from Microsoft partners, join a range of learning technology aimed at helping educators give students the individualized support they need to succeed. Head over to Microsoft Stories to meet some of the students, teachers and administrators using high quality tech tools to help all kids be game changers in tomorrow’s world. Continue reading...

Forza Horizon 5 is available now on PC on Windows and Steam, Xbox consoles and Xbox Game Pass including console, PC and Cloud Gaming (Beta). You can download the game today and choose from the following bundles: Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition or Premium Edition. Head over to Xbox Wire for details on the bundles, images from the game’s action in the ever-evolving landscape of Mexico, and to view the trailer. Continue reading...

October was a big month for PC gaming, and a recap at Xbox Wire goes over the news, updates and releases that made it so significant for keyboard warriors. Among the headlines: the launches of Age of Empires IV and Back 4 Blood – as well as many others through Xbox Game Pass for PC; the availability of the Minecraft PC Bundle; and the updates that came with Windows 11 that can make your games look and run better than ever. Head over to Xbox Wire to get all the details. Continue reading...

Total War: Warhammer III is coming Feb. 17, and will bring its massive Warhammer Fantasy armies to Game Pass for PC on day one. The release will usher in the first Games Workshop and Creative Assembly strategy series title to come to Game Pass for PC. It’s also a conclusion to the story the series has been marching toward for the last five years. “This will be undoubtably be the biggest and best Total War: Warhammer game ever,” says Creative Assembly’s Ben Barrett in a post on Xbox Wire, “featuring six factions, nine unique legendary lords and endless replayability.” Head over to Xbox Wire for details and images from the upcoming title. Continue reading...

Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition launches in early access starting tomorrow, Nov. 5, at midnight local time. Premium Edition owners can preload Forza Horizon 5 today and explore the open world of Mexico ahead of global launch on Nov. 9. In addition to early access, the Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition and Premium Add-ons Bundle on Xbox or Windows PCs include the Welcome Pack, Car Pass, VIP Membership and two game expansions when they become available. Head over to Xbox Wire for details, and to check out the newly released launch trailer celebrating the game’s release. Continue reading...

If you’re looking for a Windows 11 laptop that you can use for both work and play, ASUS has a great option to consider: its new Vivobook 13 Slate OLED. This 2-in-1 device is a detachable that has a 13.3-inch OLED Dolby Vision touchscreen with a 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio. Corning Gorilla Glass covers this super-bright and responsive 550-nit touchscreen for viewers to enjoy a cinematic experience with Dolby Atmos audio. Dive deep into your films and TV shows with this PC’s impressive detail, brighter highlights and intense blacks. The ultrawide 100% DCI-P3 color gamut ensures vivid colors and is PANTONE Validated for professional-grade color accuracy. It also has a fast 0.2-millisecond response time, and offers much better eye protection, too, with naturally lower blue-light levels — up to 70% lower than an LCD display — that deliver TÜV Rheinland-certified eye care. https://blogs.windows.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/2/2021/11/21042BD_ASUS-Vivobook_05b_PR-1024x683.jpg For video calls, it has two cameras in the front and rear — 5 MP and 13 MP. AI Noise-Canceling Audio means that voices in meetings are as clear as possible, even when there are lots of people in the room. In 2022, Vivobook 13 Slate OLED will be available in three editions, including two Artist Editions designed in collaboration with Steven Harrington and Philip Colbert, themed to reflect modern pop culture. All Vivobook 13 Slate models come bundled with a keyboard cover, kickstand and the new ASUS pen 2.0. The entry level configuration is available for $599, with a top-of -the-line model for those who need more memory and storage. For more information, head over to ASUS. Continue reading...

Game Pass subscribers running Windows 10 and 11 can now cross-play with any other Minecrafter – regardless of platform – through the Minecraft: PC Bundle. Just choose which game to launch based on whom you want to play with. This will be easier with the introduction of a special feature – the unified Minecraft launcher. Instead of having separate launchers for the Bedrock and Java Edition, you will be able to start both versions of Minecraft from a single game launcher. Find out more on Minecraft.net. Continue reading...

The last 18 months have resulted in a sea change throughout every industry – from the adoption of telehealth in healthcare to digital wallets in financial services to curbside pickup and contactless shopping in retail – and digital technology has been at the forefront of this seismic shift. My own habits have changed as well, to the point I can’t imagine going back to a world lacking technological flexibility and digital dexterity. In other words, thank goodness I can get away with sometimes forgetting my wallet at home. Digital technology is now more necessary than ever, for every organization in every sector, as we move into an era in which people expect their digital data to be available anywhere, at any time and on any device. Microsoft and the Microsoft Cloud are at the cutting edge of helping organizations and their employees and customers navigate the major trends of this new time. The Microsoft Cloud is used by organizations large and small – from new startups to the Fortune 500. It powers an organization’s digital capability, while providing the safeguards necessary to keep data confidential and secure. Microsoft Ignite is an opportunity for us to show the results of our efforts across a wide spectrum of products in several key trends: How to optimize for the new world of hybrid work How to help customers build a hyperconnected business How every business can become a digital business How to protect everything with end-to-end security At Ignite, we are introducing more than 90 new services and updates. At the core of these new announcements is a commitment to addressing the trends and exploring breakthrough ways of connecting people, organizations and ideas. There are three major areas of news we are highlighting during Ignite: Powering the metaverse Let’s start by defining the term, and no, it is not the metaverse first imagined by Neal Stephenson in 1992’s “Snow Crash.” Instead, it is a persistent, digital world that is connected to many aspects of the physical world, including people, places and things. The metaverse enables shared experiences across both the physical and digital worlds. As enterprises accelerate their digital transformation, the metaverse can help people meet up in a digital environment, make meetings more comfortable with the use of avatars and facilitate creative collaboration from all around the world. The Microsoft Cloud provides a comprehensive set of resources designed to power metaverses – there will be more than one! – IoT capabilities that enable customers to create “digital twins” of physical objects in the cloud; utilizing Microsoft Mesh to build a shared sense of presence on devices; and using AI-powered resources to create natural interactions through speech and vision machine learning models. As we discuss the metaverse, we are thinking about both a new medium and an app type, like the way we talked about the web and websites a long, long time ago, aka the 1990s. At Ignite, we are making two important announcements that continue the evolution of the metaverse: Dynamics 365 Connected Spaces: Now in preview, this product provides a new perspective on the way people move and interact with nearly any space, from the retail store to the factory floor, and how they manage health and safety in a hybrid work environment. Mesh for Microsoft Teams: This bridging of communication methods makes human presence the ultimate connection. Now, everyone in a meeting can be present without being physically present using personalized avatars and immersive spaces that can be accessed from any device, with no special equipment needed. Translating AI breakthroughs for customers Large-scale artificial intelligence models are now becoming platforms, creating ambient intelligence – digital environments that are responsive and aware of a user’s needs. These AI breakthroughs can be used by organizations in a variety of ways, from deploying intelligent agents to aid in customer service to extracting information from volumes of unstructured data. Microsoft is continuing to expand the possibilities of what this technology can do. Just five years ago, we announced the first hyperscale AI computer. Now, we have the most powerful AI supercomputer in the world, with customers using the infrastructure to address major issues. AMD, for instance, used it to design next-gen processors. Researchers in the Netherlands utilized it to simulate how COVID-19 can be spread by aerosol particles in highly populated areas. In Azure, we have built the fundamental capabilities to create and train large-scale models. Our partner OpenAI has used the supercomputer to train GPT-3 models, a breakthrough in natural language understanding and generation. At Ignite, we are announcing the Azure OpenAI Service, which initially will be available by invitation only. This will give customers access to OpenAI’s powerful models in addition to the security, reliability, compliance, data privacy and other enterprise-grade capabilities built into Microsoft Azure. Microsoft also is offering Azure OpenAI Service customers tools to ensure outputs the models provide are business-appropriate and we are monitoring how people are employing the technology to assure it is being used correctly. Learn more about AI breakthroughs and Azure products here. Building a trust fabric As we continue to explore hybrid work, hyperconnected business, multi-cloud/multi-edge computing and zero trust security, there’s one key element that connects them: the ability to have a digital ecosystem where trust between parties can be established in real time. Microsoft is building the identity system of the future, one that connects and enables people, organizations, apps and even smart devices to make real-time access decisions safely and securely. It begins with Azure Active Directory (AD), which extends beyond securing and managing access to now assisting customer processes across external collaboration methods. Microsoft Teams Connect runs on this trust fabric – every user and every access request is secured through our identity platform. And now, secure and trusted collaboration across boundaries can be established in a matter of minutes. At Ignite, we are excited to announce two updates to Teams Connect that help remove even more barriers and create a boundaryless ecosystem. Teams Shared Channels allows users to invite an external team to join a channel, schedule a shared channel meeting and collaborate on files. Chat with Teams allows users to chat seamlessly with people outside of a work network. Teams users at work can chat with any Teams user with a Microsoft personal email address or phone number and remain within the security and compliance protocols of their organization. This means employees across multiple companies can collaborate as one extended team, and only receive the correct access necessary to do their best work. Continuing the story The major areas of focus we just reviewed are the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the new products and updates we are revealing at Ignite. Other news of note includes: Microsoft Loop, a new app that moves freely across applications, enabling teams to think, plan and create together. You can organize everything you need for your project – files, links and data from other apps – into a single workspace. It is easy to use portable components to complete work in chat, meetings or documents, knowing that the content always stays in sync. The Microsoft Customer Experience Platform, a marketing solution that puts organizations in control of their customer data to personalize, automate and orchestrate customer journeys. Context IQ, a set of capabilities that will further integrate collaboration, sharing and communication in the flow of work across Dynamics 365, Office 365 and Teams. Several major updates across Azure, including how we are helping customers manage data and applications across hybrid and multicloud environments with Azure Arc. New, best-of-breed security solutions for small businesses with Defender for Business. There’s a lot to absorb, but we are excited to share it all with you. You can watch Satya Nadella’s Ignite keynote on demand, check out all the news and announcements on the Book of News page, explore product specific blogs and read about several customer stories on our news page to learn more about this technology in action. Related: How we’re empowering everyone for a new world of hybrid work Your hybrid, multicloud and edge strategy just got better with Azure Build a hyperconnected business on a foundation of data, AI and collaboration Protect everything with the most comprehensive approach to security The post Microsoft Cloud at Ignite 2021: Metaverse, AI and hyperconnectivity in a hybrid world appeared first on The Official Microsoft Blog. Continue reading...

https://blogs.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/2021/11/Steven-Worrall-Blog1.png Steven Worrall, right, with Mia Leech Morrison, a student at Rosemeadow Public School in New South Wales, Australia, and a participant in the Mini-Digital Custodians program, and her proud dad. The illustrated images are connected to Indigenous heritage and were designed by Mia and her peers using Paint 3D and Minecraft. The Cammeraygal people are the traditional custodians of the land where I’m writing this. They are one of the many tribal groups who have occupied the Sydney basin district for tens of thousands of years along with the many other First Nations tribes across the Australian continent. The Cammeraygal are the stewards and the storytellers of this place and their rock art, adorning a cave in a nearby park, serves as a constant reminder of this fact. The rock art connects across generations, reminding me how fortunate I am to live in the country with the oldest continuing civilization. At the same time, it highlights the obligation we all have to protect, preserve and promote Indigenous heritage both here and around the world. By protecting, preserving and honoring our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island heritage in Australia and Māori heritage in New Zealand – Aotearoa – we foster the sort of inclusive and respectful environment that allows us to reimagine a brighter future for all of us. This November, recognizing Indigenous Heritage Month at Microsoft offers us all the opportunity to reflect on the identities, cultures and traditional knowledge systems of all of the world’s Indigenous peoples. These cultures and systems are vital to harmonizing our relationships with nature and each other. While November is Native American Heritage Month in the United States, we know Indigenous populations pre-date governmental boundaries, and they span geographies across every continent. We take a global perspective at Microsoft and lean into this opportunity to connect with and learn from communities across our company and the globe. The learning component is key. Over the last five years I have been focused on gaining perspectives from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders themselves about how we at Microsoft can play a role in protecting and preserving culture. I make no bones about the fact that at the outset I was naïve about so much, and downright embarrassed at the gaps in my knowledge and understanding. And while I acknowledge that my learning has just begun, it’s an area I am passionate about as I’ve come to realize that Australia won’t be the nation it can be until we truly acknowledge our often-painful history so that all Australians can live together as equals. Around here, we might describe this as ensuring everyone has a fair go. I am striving to learn both about Australia’s Indigenous heritage, and following our recent integration with Microsoft New Zealand, I have the opportunity to also learn about Māori culture and heritage. One thing I have learned about this process of building awareness and empathy in order to inform action is that it is ongoing. And we can also go further in our learning no matter where we start from. It is an intentional, continuous process of discovery. A few years ago, I was privileged to be invited by Jawun – an organization that fosters strong economic linkages between Indigenous communities and commercial enterprises – to travel to Cape York, a remote and beautiful part in the very far north of Australia. I learned so much and developed a clearer understanding of the complex issues associated with delivering quality health and education services as well as economic opportunities to Indigenous communities. I also grasped how important Indigenous self-determination and constitutional change are and will continue to be, and the critical need for Microsoft to work as an ally. We are making inroads: We have invested externally. Our work with Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, to combine Indigenous knowledge with modern science, artificial intelligence and cloud computing to protect and preserve the environment has attracted global attention and signals the impact that we can have when we come together. We are playing a role in groundbreaking programs to protect country and cultural sites, to preserve threatened species such as turtles and magpie geese in Kakadu, and to create economic opportunities for Indigenous communities at the same time. We are investing in the future. This year’s Indigital Minecraft Education Challenge attracted more than 6,500 students from 160 different schools around Australia. We worked on the challenge with Indigital, an Indigenous edutech business, and schools to combine local Indigenous knowledge and Minecraft Education Edition so that schoolchildren could create virtual worlds that respond to the 2021 National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) theme, “Heal Country.” We are proud to be part of the Business Council of Australia’s Raising the Bar initiative, and to work in partnership with Supply Nation to engage with and buy from Indigenous businesses. We have invested internally. Last year I was delighted to become the global co-executive sponsor of our Indigenous at Microsoft Employee Resource Group, which helps to amplify Indigenous voices and raise awareness of the importance of Indigenous heritage. While I have been focusing my learning within my own “backyard” in the region where I live and lead a team, I believe we can all build our awareness of the Indigenous communities and cultures all over the world, not only to address and prevent the marginalization of Indigenous peoples, but to ensure Indigenous communities thrive. I was honored recently to host a discussion with Indigenous leaders Noel Pearson and Dean Parkin and explore in more detail the opportunity and appetite for constitutional reform. Part of this process is also to acknowledge and confront the muted progress in terms of closing the statistical gap that exists in Australia between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in many areas such as life expectancy, incarceration, health and education. There are clearly deep complexities in terms of developing and delivering the services that are needed to effect abiding transformation, and we can learn much here in Australia from other countries including our closest neighbor New Zealand. Issues associated with inter-generational trauma and disadvantage are complex and multi-faceted and are not going to be addressed by government or any one organization alone – it will take us all working together. Microsoft stands ready to play our role as a digital ally as we acknowledge and embrace Indigenous identities, cultures and traditional knowledge. Interweaving that knowledge with modern science and technology, skill-building and education will allow us to reimagine a future where every human can experience equality and respect. _____ Learn more: In this video, University of Waikato Professor Dr. Linda Tuhiwai Smith discusses the ways that organizations can make the conversation around diversity & inclusion and the workplace more inclusive of the Indigenous community. Dr. Smith also highlights stigmas and workplace policies that impact the community. The post Protect, preserve and honor Indigenous heritage to reimagine a brighter future for all appeared first on The Official Microsoft Blog. Continue reading...