In this week's Microsoft Weekly, we dive into the latest happenings from the tech giant, including this month’s Patch Tuesday updates, the unfortunate closure of an Insider Channel, thrilling gaming news, and notable app updates. Here’s what you need to know:

Windows 10 and 11 News

This month, Microsoft released the Patch Tuesday updates for November 2024. Windows 11 users received significant updates labeled KB5046617 and KB5046633, while Windows 10 users got updates KB5046613, KB5046615, KB5046612, and KB5046665—some even touching on Windows Holographic. These updates addressed security issues and crashes in various apps on Windows 10 and fixed the troublesome Task Manager bug on Windows 11. However, some users found themselves confused, with reports of Windows Update mislabeling their systems as out of support.

Amid the buzz of November updates, Microsoft also announced a reduction in updates for December due to the holiday season. This means users can expect fewer non-security updates next month. To make matters more intriguing, Windows 11 ISO files specifically for ARM devices have started rolling out to users.

On the Microsoft Store front, there are some changes too! Instant games have been retired from the Arcade tab as of November 14, 2024, but a partnership with Tencent has begun bringing a selection of mobile Android games to Windows 11, initially launched for users in China.

Despite the advancements in Windows 11, older features are still lurking about. Users have discovered that with a simple registry tweak, the classic Action Center from Windows 10 can be accessed in the latest Windows 11 updates, along with the possibility of restoring the old File Explorer using a small tool.

Windows Insider Program

Updates were also released in the Windows Insider Program, with several new builds rolling out for Windows 10 and Windows 11, particularly in the Beta and Release Preview Channels. However, it's important to note that the Beta Channel for Windows 10 has officially been declared inactive again. Following a brief revival, Microsoft confirmed that build 19045.5194 is the last for this channel, which comes as Windows 10 approaches its end of support next year.

Moreover, a new “Edit with Paint” context menu option has sparked discussions among Insiders, and guides on how to disable this feature have emerged. Other anticipated changes include a fresh shortcut for OCR in the Snipping Tool and new energy consumption monitoring in the Settings app.

Gaming News

The gaming sector is abuzz, with the highly anticipated launch of "Indiana Jones and the Great Circle" just around the corner on December 9, with an early access opportunity available from December 6. In a fun twist, Xbox has teamed up with IHOP for exclusive Indiana Jones-themed menus and prizes!

Fans of "S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2: Heart of Chornobyl" should take note of the full system requirements released ahead of its launch on November 20, urging players to upgrade their hardware for an optimal gaming experience.

In other game news, Blizzard made a splash by announcing remastered versions of "Warcraft I" and "Warcraft II" that modernize the classics while retaining their nostalgic essence. Additionally, the original "Warcraft III" saw a significant upgrade with its Reforged 2.0 version.

This week also marked celebrations in the gaming community, with "Age of Empires II" celebrating its five-year anniversary and offering free DLC packs to current owners and Game Pass subscribers, despite a price increase to $34.99 for the game.

Longtime series "Half-Life" is being commemorated for its 20th anniversary with Nvidia's giveaway of a custom RTX 4080 SUPER graphics card, specifically designed to resonate with the game's design elements.

Microsoft's Game Pass library has expanded, featuring three new Spyro titles available for players. Meanwhile, hardware rumors swirl around a potential Xbox handheld console, though consumers will have to remain patient as further enhancements on existing platforms are prioritized.

Deals and Freebies

As the holiday season draws near, fantastic deals abound! The Epic Games Store is offering "Castlevania Anniversary Collection" and "Snakebird Complete" for free until next Thursday, with a host of other gaming specials available.

Whether you’re looking to score some killer discounts on hardware and software or simply eager for the latest updates from Microsoft, it’s a great time to stay tuned as the year ends with numerous tech developments and gaming delights!

Don’t miss out—make sure to keep your systems updated and explore all the exciting offers available this season!