Microsoft Archives - Tech Research Online Knowledge Base for IT Pros Thu, 25 Jan 2024 14:02:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.5 https://techresearchonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/full-black-d_favicon-70-70.png Microsoft Archives - Tech Research Online 32 32 Microsoft Mesh Now Available in Microsoft Teams: Supports 3D and VR Meetings https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-mesh-in-microsoft-teams-supports-3d-and-vr-meetings/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-mesh-in-microsoft-teams-supports-3d-and-vr-meetings/#respond Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:08:30 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=570056 On January 24, Microsoft launched its immersive 3D meetings inside Microsoft Teams. It will let people meet in virtual spaces with or without a VR headset. The company’s mixed reality platform, Microsoft Mesh came out of preview and integrated into Teams. The 3D Mesh meetings in Teams perform at optimum with a VR headset, with the tech giant only supporting Meta’s Quest devices currently. With Mesh VR, you can engage in virtual 3D meetings, and the spatial audio feature imitates the ability to have private conversations you have in an office by moving away from other co-workers in a virtual space. The amazing part about it is the 3D spaces are customizable and there are games like tossing bean bags or icebreaker questions for you to play with remote colleagues who you haven’t met before. Is Microsoft Mesh Available for Users? The standard features include 3D immersive experiences using next-generation technology that help virtual connections feel more like face-to-face interactions and are available on PC and Meta Quest VR devices. If you want to deploy it in your teams it is available in Microsoft Teams business plans and requires a Teams Premium license. The plans start for small businesses from …

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On January 24, Microsoft launched its immersive 3D meetings inside Microsoft Teams. It will let people meet in virtual spaces with or without a VR headset. The company’s mixed reality platform, Microsoft Mesh came out of preview and integrated into Teams. The 3D Mesh meetings in Teams perform at optimum with a VR headset, with the tech giant only supporting Meta’s Quest devices currently.

With Mesh VR, you can engage in virtual 3D meetings, and the spatial audio feature imitates the ability to have private conversations you have in an office by moving away from other co-workers in a virtual space. The amazing part about it is the 3D spaces are customizable and there are games like tossing bean bags or icebreaker questions for you to play with remote colleagues who you haven’t met before.

Microsoft Mesh

Is Microsoft Mesh Available for Users?

The standard features include 3D immersive experiences using next-generation technology that help virtual connections feel more like face-to-face interactions and are available on PC and Meta Quest VR devices. If you want to deploy it in your teams it is available in Microsoft Teams business plans and requires a Teams Premium license. The plans start for small businesses from $4 per user/ month and for enterprises, they have plans like Microsoft 365 E3 which is $36 per user/ month.

Enterprises Using Microsoft Mesh Today

Many organizations opted for the immersive 3D experience in Microsoft Teams. Beginning from Bp to Takeda, some of the biggest enterprises have done it.

Accenture

One of the largest consulting firms globally created a strategic partnership with Microsoft to design a solution that maintains authentic connections promotes cultural understanding, and encourages unity across the organization.

Ellyn Shook, Accenture’s Chief Leadership & Human Resources Officer in talks with Microsoft explained that the new onboarding experience helped the new employees understand the company’s culture, core values, and how Accenture drives value for the clients, people, and communities. All in a collaborative, immersive way that transcends space and place.

Takeda

Takeda had a unique challenge of finding a cost-effective way to help their geo-diverse workforce connect and further their common cultural understanding. They created a custom solution designed to inculcate engagement, strengthen the commitment to their corporate philosophy, and speed product innovation: the Hirameki Garden. The garden, created in Microsoft Mesh, enables a virtual location for large, company-wide events like town halls and all-hands meetings.

bp

They created a specialized physical meeting space called Highly Immersive Visualization Environments (HIVEs). This permitted experts to understand and team up on complex problems in a way that wouldn’t be possible with traditional tools. 

Roger Rohatgi, Vice President and Global Head of Design for bp, shares that “highly immersive visualization environments open the path to a more digital and collaborative future for bp. By partnering with Microsoft Mesh, we can explore how to use advanced technology for faster, more informed, and safer decision-making as we pursue our ambition to become an integrated energy company.”

Final Thoughts

Microsoft has always been in the news, whether it was stopping updates of Windows 10 or launch an in-house AI chip. This feature though being innovative and engaging needs to witness the adaptability and utility of most organizations. As Microsoft confirmed many international organizations have been using it, but overall how many companies use Teams as their mode of corporate communication? We have to see since the upgrade how many enterprises actively engage in it.

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You Can Now Use the DALL-E 3 AI Image Generator in Microsoft Bing https://techresearchonline.com/news/dall-e-3-ai-image-generator-on-microsoft-bing/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/dall-e-3-ai-image-generator-on-microsoft-bing/#respond Wed, 04 Oct 2023 12:39:22 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=404598 On Tuesday, October 3rd, Microsoft announced that OpenAI’s latest model DALL-E 3 is now available to all Bing users. The feature was out over the last week, first for the Bing Enterprise users and then for Bing Image Creator. Now it is open for all Bing users to enjoy. The tech giant in its blog post said, “We’re excited to share that DALL-E 3, the latest and most capable text-to-image model from OpenAI, is now generally available to everyone within Bing Chat and Bing.com/create—for free!” Moreover, Bing is getting DALL-E 3 access way before OpenAI’s ChatGPT, bringing an advantage to Microsoft. The tech giant is likely to be the most popular image-generating tool for a long while. The Significance of DALL-E 3 It is the third version of OpenAI’s image-generating model powered by a neural network. It can generate realistic and distinct images from a natural language prompt. DALL-E 3 understands the user’s prompt with much more precision and reliability than the previous models. Furthermore, this version produces images that are photorealistic meaning they are not just visually attractive but are backed by logic. Microsoft has also attempted to design it in a way that is easier to use. It …

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On Tuesday, October 3rd, Microsoft announced that OpenAI’s latest model DALL-E 3 is now available to all Bing users. The feature was out over the last week, first for the Bing Enterprise users and then for Bing Image Creator. Now it is open for all Bing users to enjoy.
The tech giant in its blog post said, “We’re excited to share that DALL-E 3, the latest and most capable text-to-image model from OpenAI, is now generally available to everyone within Bing Chat and Bing.com/create—for free!”
Moreover, Bing is getting DALL-E 3 access way before OpenAI’s ChatGPT, bringing an advantage to Microsoft. The tech giant is likely to be the most popular image-generating tool for a long while.

The Significance of DALL-E 3

It is the third version of OpenAI’s image-generating model powered by a neural network. It can generate realistic and distinct images from a natural language prompt. DALL-E 3 understands the user’s prompt with much more precision and reliability than the previous models. Furthermore, this version produces images that are photorealistic meaning they are not just visually attractive but are backed by logic.
Microsoft has also attempted to design it in a way that is easier to use. It has integrated DALL-E 3 into Bing and ChatGPT instead of making a standalone product. This will make it convenient for users to create and improvise their images by conversing with the chatbot rather than trying to improve their initial attempt.

Microsoft Ensuring the Safety and Ethics

In the blog post, they mentioned the risks and challenges associated with synthetic media and have taken appropriate steps to ensure it. Microsoft has created a content moderation system of its own which enables it to avoid creating images that contain nudity, violence, hate speech, or illegal activities.
In Bing Image Creator, all AI-generated images will possess a watermark complying with the C2PA specification. This watermark will include the time and date of its creation and confirm the source of the image as AI-generated.
Since the launch of Bing Image Creator, users have generated one billion images. No wonder why the servers will be overloaded for a while.
Microsoft’s Mikhail Parakhin posted— we know the DALL-E 3.0 generation right now is taking longer than normal. We expected some strong interest, but we didn’t expect THAT much, especially given it’s a weekend. Bringing more GPUs in will be better soon.
What images will you be generating through Bing Chat and Image Creator? Let us know in the comments.

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Microsoft Reveals Unified AI Assistant And New Surface Devices https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-copilot-unveiled/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-copilot-unveiled/#respond Fri, 22 Sep 2023 13:47:32 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=404387 In an announcement on Thursday, September 21, Microsoft unveiled it’s latest technological achievement. Microsoft introduced Copilot, a unified AI assistant set to change the Windows 11 platform. Simultaneously, they also revealed four new Surface Devices that will enhance user experiences with the latest technological advancements. At Microsoft, Yusuf Mehdi, corporate vice president & consumer chief marketing officer, said, “We are entering a new era of AI, one that is fundamentally changing how we relate to and benefit from technology. With the convergence of chat interfaces and large-language models, you can now ask for what you want in natural language, and the technology is smart enough to answer, create it, or take action. At Microsoft, we think about this as having a copilot to help navigate any task.” Copilot is designed to integrate with multiple Microsoft web and productivity applications flawlessly. This will include Bing, the Edge browser, and the Microsoft 365 software suite. The tech giant aims to enhance functionality and productivity for users on various Microsoft Platforms. They have also confirmed that the Copilot will be available for purchase starting November 1, 2023. Windows 11 Updates Include Copilot Integration Microsoft’s AI capabilities are merged into a single experience with …

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In an announcement on Thursday, September 21, Microsoft unveiled it’s latest technological achievement. Microsoft introduced Copilot, a unified AI assistant set to change the Windows 11 platform. Simultaneously, they also revealed four new Surface Devices that will enhance user experiences with the latest technological advancements.
At Microsoft, Yusuf Mehdi, corporate vice president & consumer chief marketing officer, said, “We are entering a new era of AI, one that is fundamentally changing how we relate to and benefit from technology. With the convergence of chat interfaces and large-language models, you can now ask for what you want in natural language, and the technology is smart enough to answer, create it, or take action. At Microsoft, we think about this as having a copilot to help navigate any task.”
Copilot is designed to integrate with multiple Microsoft web and productivity applications flawlessly. This will include Bing, the Edge browser, and the Microsoft 365 software suite. The tech giant aims to enhance functionality and productivity for users on various Microsoft Platforms. They have also confirmed that the Copilot will be available for purchase starting November 1, 2023.

Windows 11 Updates Include Copilot Integration

Microsoft’s AI capabilities are merged into a single experience with Microsoft Copilot. It will incorporate the context and intelligence of the web, your work data, and whatever task you are performing on your PC. This will result in providing better assistance without compromising your privacy and security. These seamless features will be available in Windows 11, Microsoft 365, and web browsers with Edge and Bing, available as an app, or you can avail it whenever needed with a right-click
The Windows 11 update will carry over 150 new features allowing users to quickly create and complete tasks and simplify complicated tasks. The update will include Copilot integration, new Outlook for Windows, new capabilities in Paint, and Photos enhanced with AI. Moreover, it also has improved Clipchamp, Notepad, modernized File Explorer, and new natural voices in Narrator to enhance accessibility and productivity.
These updates will come out on September 26 with the latest update to Windows 11, version 22H2.
Copilot will also be introduced in Microsoft Shopping which means users will receive more tailored recommendations and the best prices based on your request. Along with Microsoft Shopping, Copilot will be integrated into Bing Chat Enterprise, Microsoft 365 Chat, and Microsoft Designer.
With the continuous upgrades and AI enhancements, Microsoft must also follow these AI regulations and data safety and privacy rules.

The Cutting Edge New Surface Devices

In addition to its AI progress, Microsoft is also expanding its hardware section with new surface devices. The company dropped three new laptops – Surface Laptop Go 3, Surface Laptop Studio 2, and Surface Go 4 for Business and an upgraded version of its interactive whiteboard, the Surface Hub 3.
The new Surface Laptop Studio 2 has the most powerful surface the company has ever built. The laptop possesses the latest Intel Core processors and cutting-edge NVIDIA Studio tools for creative individuals and enthusiasts. The display is a stunning 14.4″ PixelSense Flow touchscreen display and flexible design with three unique postures.
The new Surface Laptop Go 3 is light in weight and the most portable Surface Laptop. It also has premium features like a great typing experience and a Fingerprint Power Button. The new laptop contains a touchscreen display and comes in 4 colors which are Sage, Sandstone, Platinum, and Ice Blue. It will be a perfect everyday laptop with Intel Core i5 performance, all-day battery life, and robust RAM and storage options.
Surface Go 4 for Business is the most portable Surface 2-in-1. The new Surface Go will be available exclusively for organizations. It is ideal for professionals as it has robust computing power and security features.
Surface Hub 3 is a collaboration device built for hybrid work. It will now run the Microsoft Teams Rooms experience on a brilliant 50” or 85” screen, and bring new ways to create with AI-enhanced collaboration tools.
3D printable Adaptive Pen Grips for Surface Pen have been added to the lineup of adaptive accessories, enabling the engagement of more people in digital inking and creation than before.

Our Thoughts

Microsoft’s announcement has marked a significant growth with its AI capabilities and hardware innovations. With Google’s continuous upgrades in its Chatbot Bard, the Copilot now has the challenge of gaining the audience’s attention. The new surface devices hold amazing features and will provide improved performance. Microsoft has also considered its audience’s preferences and needs while making the advancements that reflect in the laptop features.

What are your thoughts on Microsoft’s new AI assistant and surface devices? Let us know in the comments.

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Call of Duty to Remain on PlayStation After Microsoft and Sony’s Deal https://techresearchonline.com/news/call-of-duty-microsoft-deal-with-sony/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/call-of-duty-microsoft-deal-with-sony/#respond Mon, 17 Jul 2023 15:12:25 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=401953 After the proposed Activision Blizzard merger, Sony and Microsoft reached an agreement to preserve the Call of Duty series on PlayStation for 10 more years. Sony and Microsoft have reportedly reached a binding agreement to maintain Call of Duty on PlayStation, according to Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer. This puts an end to the heated dispute between the two businesses that had been raging for the previous year, both in private and in public. Ever since Microsoft revealed its intentions to buy Activision Blizzard in January 2022.  Understanding the Revised Deal Microsoft’s first agreement with Sony in January 2022 specified that all current Activision console titles on Sony, including future versions in the Call of Duty franchise or any other current Activision franchise through December 31st, 2027, will be maintained. The conditions of the agreement have altered since the initial offer, and the 10-year extension is only applicable to Call of Duty. But during the FTC vs. Microsoft hearing, a shocking email from PlayStation CEO Ryan was read out in court. It suggested that he wasn’t truly concerned about Call of Duty exclusivity and was pretty sure we will continue to see Call of Duty on PlayStation for many …

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After the proposed Activision Blizzard merger, Sony and Microsoft reached an agreement to preserve the Call of Duty series on PlayStation for 10 more years. Sony and Microsoft have reportedly reached a binding agreement to maintain Call of Duty on PlayStation, according to Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer.

This puts an end to the heated dispute between the two businesses that had been raging for the previous year, both in private and in public. Ever since Microsoft revealed its intentions to buy Activision Blizzard in January 2022.

Understanding the Revised Deal

Microsoft’s first agreement with Sony in January 2022 specified that all current Activision console titles on Sony, including future versions in the Call of Duty franchise or any other current Activision franchise through December 31st, 2027, will be maintained. The conditions of the agreement have altered since the initial offer, and the 10-year extension is only applicable to Call of Duty.

Microsoft and Sony Deal. Email presented at the court as evidence

But during the FTC vs. Microsoft hearing, a shocking email from PlayStation CEO Ryan was read out in court. It suggested that he wasn’t truly concerned about Call of Duty exclusivity and was pretty sure we will continue to see Call of Duty on PlayStation for many years to come. Ryan had called Xbox CEO Phil Spencer in January 2022 to ask for assurances on Call of Duty, according to Microsoft’s lawyers, who argued Ryan didn’t initially have worries about the deal.

The agreement comes after months of discussions and counter-offers between Microsoft and Sony on the future of Activision content on PlayStation for the next 18 months. It was also disclosed at the FTC vs. Microsoft hearing that Xbox CEO Spencer sent PlayStation CEO Ryan an email on August 26. It included a list of Activision games that will continue to be available on PlayStation, and Ryan wasn’t pleased.

The email caused a breakdown in communication between Spencer and Ryan, leading to Spencer revealing Call of Duty’s continued presence on PlayStation beyond the current Sony contract. Ryan criticized Spencer’s public contract negotiations, stating they were inadequate and failed to consider the impact on gamers.

Escalating Tensions Between Microsoft and Sony

Tensions over Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard deal escalated when Jim Ryan spoke with Activision CEO Bobby Kotick on February 21st, 2023, during a meeting with EU regulators. Ryan expressed his desire to block the merger, claiming it was anti-competitive. Kotick hoped regulators would block the merger, while Microsoft attempted to tempt Sony into signing a deal.

Microsoft has consistently insisted that it will keep Call of Duty available on PlayStation, claiming that doing so would be financially unwise. Before testifying in court that Call of Duty will remain on PlayStation, Spencer attempted to resolve the dispute in November.

The UK’s regulatory situation is a focus as Microsoft and the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) discuss a case management conference. Both parties agreed to pause legal battles to address CMA’s cloud gaming concerns and warned of potential merger investigations. The conference is expected to adjourn proceedings pending further discussions.

Despite this, the CMA later announced an extension of its general inquiry into the transaction, pushing back the deadline for a final ruling from July 18 to August 29. Microsoft wants to complete its Activision transaction by the deadline of July 18. But there may be a slight delay so that the UK situation can be rectified.

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Microsoft Says DDoS Attacks Were to Blame for Recent Service Failures https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-says-ddos-attacks-were-to-blame-for-recent-service-failures/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-says-ddos-attacks-were-to-blame-for-recent-service-failures/#respond Mon, 19 Jun 2023 16:06:02 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=400041 Microsoft shared information that impacted its services earlier this month. Microsoft applications like the OneDrive file-sharing and Outlook email programs were impacted, as well as the technology giant’s core Azure cloud computing system. The cyber collective Anonymous Sudan claimed responsibility, for the attack and Microsoft still holds them accountable. Although the company stated that after investigating the incident, it had “seen no evidence that customer data has been accessed or compromised“. Nonetheless, Microsoft asked clients to evaluate the technical information and recommendations given in its post to strengthen their systems against future assaults.  What Is a “Distributed Denial-Of-Service” (DDoS) Attack?  For those who are not familiar, a Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attack (DDoS) attack is a type of malicious activity that involves flooding a server or network with incoming internet traffic.  A frequent type of attack that allows criminals to affect the accessibility of internet services. Typically, it entails using maliciously infected, remotely exploited workstations. They are under the authority of hackers to send commands over the internet to overwhelm target network servers.   Whom Did It Affect?  The technology giant’s core cloud computing platform, Azure, as well as applications like OneDrive and Outlook email services, were impacted. Microsoft provides a …

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Microsoft shared information that impacted its services earlier this month. Microsoft applications like the OneDrive file-sharing and Outlook email programs were impacted, as well as the technology giant’s core Azure cloud computing system. The cyber collective Anonymous Sudan claimed responsibility, for the attack and Microsoft still holds them accountable. Although the company stated that after investigating the incident, it had “seen no evidence that customer data has been accessed or compromised“. Nonetheless, Microsoft asked clients to evaluate the technical information and recommendations given in its post to strengthen their systems against future assaults. 

What Is a “Distributed Denial-Of-Service” (DDoS) Attack? 

For those who are not familiar, a Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attack (DDoS) attack is a type of malicious activity that involves flooding a server or network with incoming internet traffic A frequent type of attack that allows criminals to affect the accessibility of internet services. Typically, it entails using maliciously infected, remotely exploited workstations. They are under the authority of hackers to send commands over the internet to overwhelm target network servers.  

Whom Did It Affect? 

The technology giant’s core cloud computing platform, Azure, as well as applications like OneDrive and Outlook email services, were impacted. Microsoft provides a wide range of cloud-based services. So, the attack may have had an effect on millions of its clients globally. Though the company hasn’t yet disclosed the full scope of the interruption. 

People Responsible for Attack 

When the incident first occurred, the cyber collective Anonymous Sudan claimed responsibility, and Microsoft still holds that group responsible. Microsoft made a few comments about the issue at the time.  But in a post over the weekend, it confirmed that distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks were to blame. 

After the disruption, Microsoft claimed it had started monitoring behavior by the threat actor, which it had called Storm-1359 using a naming scheme it uses for groups while inquiries are in progress. It was further said that “the offender appears to be focused on disruption and publicity”. 

Anonymous Sudan first appeared at the start of this year. They claimed to target countries that interfere in Sudanese affairs or advance anti-Muslim ideologies. The group’s alleged affiliation with the pro-Kremlin hacking collective Killnet. Several security specialists, however, support the allegation that the group’s position on Sudan is essentially a lie.

Even while more information about the incident may still surface, the fact that Microsoft was unable to handle a DDoS attack may be the most worrisome. 

 

Conclusion – How Does Microsoft Defend Against DDoS Attacks on Its Azure Servers Then? 

According to Microsoft, the increase in attacks is due to the abundance of low-cost DDoS-for-hire services, which may tempt hackers to take down servers. Microsoft’s own Azure DDoS Protection team prevents the attacks. All Azure servers and all Microsoft assets are safeguarded by this team. Azure DDoS Protection features application layer protection, continuous monitoring, automatic network attack mitigation, and cutting-edge intelligence that can recognize traffic patterns over time. 

In conclusion, Microsoft is continuously striving for better results and safeguarding the interest of the users and wants the user to be aware of the same.   

 

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Microsoft to end support for Windows 8.1; What happens next? https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-end-support-for-windows-8/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-end-support-for-windows-8/#respond Fri, 24 Jun 2022 14:44:13 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=146438 Microsoft is officially preparing to send reminders to users of Windows 8.1 users that support will end on January 10, 2023. It will begin sending notifications to existing Windows 8.1 devices in July, as a first reminder lending up to January 2023 support cut-off.   End of Windows 8.1 Support  The antiqued Windows 8.1 is approaching the end of its tenure. This is mainly because the operating system will soon lose support from Microsoft, starting from January 10 2023, after which users will no longer receive official patches to protect them from danger. To officially remind users that the end is nigh, the software giant will soon be sending users reminders to upgrade to upper versions as soon as possible.    Starting from July 2022, Windows 8.1 users will begin seeing messages asking them to upgrade to a newer version of Windows. Users will get the option to disable these notifications until Windows 8.1 falls out of support (in case they are not interested).  No ESU for the Ceasing Operating System  Microsoft will send notifications similar to the ones used in the past to remind Windows 7 users about the end of support dates. Although Microsoft ended Windows 8 support …

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Microsoft is officially preparing to send reminders to users of Windows 8.1 users that support will end on January 10, 2023. It will begin sending notifications to existing Windows 8.1 devices in July, as a first reminder lending up to January 2023 support cut-off.  

End of Windows 8.1 Support 

The antiqued Windows 8.1 is approaching the end of its tenure. This is mainly because the operating system will soon lose support from Microsoft, starting from January 10 2023, after which users will no longer receive official patches to protect them from danger. To officially remind users that the end is nigh, the software giant will soon be sending users reminders to upgrade to upper versions as soon as possible.   

Windows-8.1-Start-Menu-NewStarting from July 2022, Windows 8.1 users will begin seeing messages asking them to upgrade to a newer version of Windows. Users will get the option to disable these notifications until Windows 8.1 falls out of support (in case they are not interested). 

No ESU for the Ceasing Operating System 

Microsoft will send notifications similar to the ones used in the past to remind Windows 7 users about the end of support dates. Although Microsoft ended Windows 8 support in 2016, the Windows 8.1 update will cease support in 2023. Microsoft will not offer an Extended Security Update (ESU) program for Windows 8.1. Therefore, businesses will be unable to pay for additional security patches and will rather have to upgrade or accept the risk of running software without any security updates.  

The reception to Windows 8 was substantially improved by Windows 8.1. Windows 8 offered a new touch-centric vision for Microsoft’s future, but many PC users rejected it because of how abruptly it did away with the old desktop and Start button. The mobile-first OS didn’t fit with what people wanted, and Microsoft apologized by bringing back the Start button in Windows 8.1.  

 How good was Windows 8.1? 

Despite the improvements brought by the Windows 8.1 update, Microsoft and some of its users will be glad to forget the Windows 8 period. Faced with competition from the iPad, Microsoft tried to update Windows but instead alienated many of its devoted fans. When Windows 10 debuted in 2015, it undid many of Windows 8’s most drastic changes, and Windows 11 has gone much farther by deleting the Start menu’s Live Tiles and redesigning several dated features that have been part of Windows for decades.  

Windows 8.1 users now must decide whether to upgrade their operating system or purchase a new computer. Due to the general rigid CPU requirements, Microsoft admits that most Windows 8.1 machines will not even support Windows 11. “While most Windows 8.1 or Windows 8 devices will not meet the hardware requirements for upgrading to Windows 11, compatible Windows 8 and 8.1 PCs can be upgraded to Windows 10 by purchasing and installing a full version of the software,” Microsoft explains in a support note.  

That leaves Windows 10 as one of the most probable upgrade options, which will be supported until October 14th, 2025. Windows 8.1 machines will not cease to function on January 10, 2023, but continuing to use the OS without software updates and security fixes is a major risk. Microsoft’s support site contains a plethora of FAQs and articles to assist Windows 8.1 users in upgrading or migrating files to a new machine. 

Anwesha Mishra

Anwesha has been a creative writer for a while. Currently, on her pursuit of tech writing, she is diving into the realms of technology to produce better content on the forever-changing world of technology. In her free time, you’ll find her humming tunes of her favourite shows or reading a book.

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Microsoft Testing Notepad on Windows 11 With Multi-Level Undo Feature https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-testing-notepad-on-windows-11-with-multi-level-undo-feature/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-testing-notepad-on-windows-11-with-multi-level-undo-feature/#respond Wed, 08 Dec 2021 13:27:55 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=97100 Microsoft has redesigned Notepad for Windows 11. They have rolled out a test build that is, for now, only available as a part of the Dev Channel to Windows Insiders.   The new Notepad sports a completely overhauled UI and features rounded corners, Mica material, and other tweaks. The design of the renewed notepad aligns with the visual design of Windows 11.   Microsoft states that the changes aim to provide a “modern spin on the classic app” with improved functionality.  The all-new Dark Mode is the highlight of this version of Notepad. This feature was added due to the ‘demand from the community’. This version can adapt to the system’s theme preference by default with the addition of the font options.   Microsoft has also redesigned the notepad’s ‘find and replace‘ option for an improved workflow. The undo feature allowed users to go back only one step in previous versions.   Microsoft is also working on improving its Notepad’s performance when users open very large files.  In the company’s Insider program, announced on 2014, they have allowed owners of Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server licensee to gain access to pre-release builds of OS.   Today, the program boasts millions of users who provide valuable feedback and engage with Microsoft engineers. Its platform features three channels – Dev, Beta, and Release Preview.   Read Also: Instagram to Introduce …

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Microsoft has redesigned Notepad for Windows 11. They have rolled out a test build that is, for now, only available as a part of the Dev Channel to Windows Insiders.  

The new Notepad sports a completely overhauled UI and features rounded corners, Mica material, and other tweaks. The design of the renewed notepad aligns with the visual design of Windows 11 

Microsoft states that the changes aim to provide a “modern spin on the classic app” with improved functionality. 

The all-new Dark Mode is the highlight of this version of Notepad. This feature was added due to the ‘demand from the community’. This version can adapt to the system’s theme preference by default with the addition of the font options.  

Microsoft has also redesigned the notepad’s ‘find and replace‘ option for an improved workflow. The undo feature allowed users to go back only one step in previous versions. 

 Microsoft is also working on improving its Notepad’s performance when users open very large files. 

In the company’s Insider program, announced on 2014, they have allowed owners of Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server licensee to gain access to pre-release builds of OS.  

Today, the program boasts millions of users who provide valuable feedback and engage with Microsoft engineers. Its platform features three channels – Dev, Beta, and Release Preview.  

Read Also: Instagram to Introduce Parental Control Features

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Microsoft Office vs. Apple iWork Review: Which is Better? https://techresearchonline.com/blog/microsoft-office-vs-apple-iwork/ https://techresearchonline.com/blog/microsoft-office-vs-apple-iwork/#respond Tue, 12 Oct 2021 13:44:44 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=69812 Introduction Word documents, spreadsheets, and presentations are files we often use regularly, whether at home for general life admin or work.    Microsoft Office comprises Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. After the early success of MS Word (launched in 1983), it was announced as a package by Bill Gates in August 1988.   Microsoft Office has been a staple software package for universities and workplaces. Everyone who has been enrolled in schools and universities in the past 15-20 years has some familiarity with using MS Office.   Following Microsoft’s initial domination in the world of the operating system, Apple came to the fore. Steve Jobs bought high-tech hardware as well as software to the tech scene. Being a Microsoft program, Apple’s computers did not come with preinstalled MS Office. Instead, the company encourages users to delve into their business solutions, such as iWork.     Despite the many hurdles, Microsoft and Apple have remained top players and competitors in the tech world. Let’s take a look at the differences and similarities of Office v iWork to uncover which software is best for you:   Operating Software   The key factor to consider while choosing between MS Office and Apple iWork is …

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Introduction

Word documents, spreadsheets, and presentations are files we often use regularly, whether at home for general life admin or work.   

Microsoft Office comprises Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. After the early success of MS Word (launched in 1983), it was announced as a package by Bill Gates in August 1988.  

Microsoft Office has been a staple software package for universities and workplaces. Everyone who has been enrolled in schools and universities in the past 15-20 years has some familiarity with using MS Office.  

Following Microsoft’s initial domination in the world of the operating system, Apple came to the fore. Steve Jobs bought high-tech hardware as well as software to the tech scene.

Being a Microsoft program, Apple’s computers did not come with preinstalled MS Office. Instead, the company encourages users to delve into their business solutions, such as iWork.    

Despite the many hurdles, Microsoft and Apple have remained top players and competitors in the tech world. Let’s take a look at the differences and similarities of Office v iWork to uncover which software is best for you:  

Operating Software  

The key factor to consider while choosing between MS Office and Apple iWork is their operating system. Apple’s iWork is available to use on Apple devices (Mac, iPad, iPhone) and can only be used on a Windows device via iCloud.

Besides, Apple does not offer a compatible desktop version of iWork. However, when using Mac, you can download Office and Apple iWork from the app store.  

Compatibility  

When you are working solo or with other Mac users, it is relatively easy to use Pages, Numbers, and Keynote. However, you might find a lot of compatibility issues when sending and receiving iWorks files in a room full of PC users.   

To resolve this issue, Apple has allowed an easy import and export of files to popular Microsoft Office formats, such as .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx. However, image sizing, fonts, and layouts can sometimes be hard when converting between file formats.  

Functionality  

Take a first look at the basic function upon initial glance, both the office suites perform in a very similar way by offering similar functionality. When you compare several features in both the application, iWork’s applications act as a like-for-like substitute for MS Office in many ways for a standard user. However, once you start digging deeper and you will find differences between the two packages.   

User interface  

Many users find the simple and less crowded interface of the iWork suite more aesthetically pleasing. So much so that MS Office has tried to copy some designs in its latest update.   

To make the device as such, Apple has taken steps away from overwhelming menu options like Windows. They left the most utilized features easily accessible even to users with no training.

However, the same design can be a hindrance when creating more complex documents as useful tools are hidden in obscure places compared to Windows.  

Mobile Integration and Cloud Storage   

iWork allows you to store and access files from anywhere for free as it is fully integrated with iCloud online storage. Besides, it works across multiple devices which means that you will never have the stress of losing a file due to a corrupt memory stick ever again.   

In the case of MS Office, only business users have the option to store files online on a monthly price plan. This means that they’ll need to have an Office license assigned and SharePoint online, via OneDrive.  

Sharing and Collaboration  

Both Apple and Microsoft allow multiple users to seamlessly collaborate on the same document in real-time, for free using their collaboration tools. These tools are supported across many devices.  

Individual Applications at a Glance:  

Word vs Pages  

Software packages, MS Word and Pages, are both very similar when it comes to their offered features. Both have basic word processing features including custom headers and footers, text formatting, footnotes, bullets and number lists, pictures, and images.   

But from here the difference starts as Pages comes with its document design, particularly for flyers, leaflets, and posters to help you format them with ease. Besides, it allows you to add charts to the document which is a major feature missing from MS Word.   

However, Microsoft Word outperforms Pages when it comes to writing tools, including spell-checking and word count tools. Also, Word provides a variety of formatting options.

The best part is that it allows you to add special effects to text such as 3D or shadow. You can even add special effects to imagery such as reflection, drop shadow, and much more.  

Excel vs Numbers  

In general, Excel, despite its aesthetically unpleasing design, is far easier to work with than Numbers. Excel is particularly great while working with large amounts of raw data.

Both Excel and Numbers are packages that work for everyday budgeting and planning. However, Excel is better for academic or professional use as it offers a larger range of features and functions.  

Apple used the same clean-cut approach it did for its other software when creating Numbers. This means that formulas and shortcuts are not obvious to find when compared to Excel’s menus.   

From a learning perspective, compared to Numbers, you can find a great range of resources and ‘how to’ tutorials for Excel.  

PowerPoint vs Keynote  

Keynote exceeds PowerPoint when it comes to design. Keynote allows users with no design background to create sleek and stylish presentations easily.

It offers them easy options to pull images, sounds, and video with a wide range of in-built themes, layouts, animations, and fonts.   

While PowerPoint is far more functional than beautiful, it is powerful presentation software. If you can use it to its full potential then it can provide a lot of control over your design.

However, its complexity can become a hindrance for users who don’t know how to use it. Besides, it’s always easy to create ugly presentations with over-the-top transitions.  

Conclusion:  

iWork works well in a Mac operating environment, while MS Office works well in a Windows operating environment. Former allows immersive experience in the Apple ecosystem without additional software, while latter offers familiarity and comfort when transferring files without compatibility issues.  

Apple applications have a beautiful and clean design keeping with Apple’s sleek aesthetic pleasing look. It can fulfill almost all of the requirements of everyday users. Office software, overall, includes features and better user control and functionality (which are not utilized every day, but useful to have).  

If you are looking for the perfect operating software for you, don’t limit yourself to Apple and Microsoft. But you can also look for other alternatives, such as the free “LibreOffice” and Google’s online competitor G Suite.  

Author Bio:

Shreeya Chourasia is an experienced B2B marketing/tech content writer, who is diligently committed for growing your online presence. Her writing doesn’t merely direct the audience to take action, rather it explains how to take action for promising outcomes.

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Microsoft launches Xbox Cloud Gaming in Japan, Brazil, Australia, and Mexico https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-launches-xbox-cloud-gaming-in-japan-brazil-australia-and-mexico/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-launches-xbox-cloud-gaming-in-japan-brazil-australia-and-mexico/#respond Thu, 30 Sep 2021 13:36:57 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=65247 Over the past few months, Microsoft has been testing Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) service, and now the giant is launching it in Japan, Brazil, Australia, and Mexico.    The software giant’s streaming Xbox Game Pass Ultimate games are now ready to expand the reach of its xCloud technology in these markets.   The company will be making XCloud available to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers in Brazil and Mexico later today. This will mean that they will technically launch it, in Australia and Japan, in the early hours of October 1st.    Users will have to access XCloud Gaming separately through a dedicated Xbox Windows or Android app, or they can opt for the web for other devices.   The software giant has now expanded its Xbox Cloud Gaming in 26 countries.   “Since cloud gaming is powered by custom Xbox Series X consoles, that means these games are being played on an Xbox in the cloud, bringing faster load times and improved frame rates to the gameplay experience,” explains Catherine Gluckstein, Microsoft’s head of Project xCloud.   Alongside the expansion, Microsoft has also announced, later today, the arrival of Scarlet Nexus on Xbox Game Pass during its Tokyo Game Show broadcast.     Read Also : Microsoft Releases New Updates and Features for Xbox App …

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Over the past few months, Microsoft has been testing Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) service, and now the giant is launching it in Japan, Brazil, Australia, and Mexico.   

The software giant’s streaming Xbox Game Pass Ultimate games are now ready to expand the reach of its xCloud technology in these markets.  

The company will be making XCloud available to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers in Brazil and Mexico later today. This will mean that they will technically launch it, in Australia and Japan, in the early hours of October 1st.   

Users will have to access XCloud Gaming separately through a dedicated Xbox Windows or Android app, or they can opt for the web for other devices.  

The software giant has now expanded its Xbox Cloud Gaming in 26 countries.  

Since cloud gaming is powered by custom Xbox Series X consoles, that means these games are being played on an Xbox in the cloud, bringing faster load times and improved frame rates to the gameplay experience,” explains Catherine Gluckstein, Microsoft’s head of Project xCloud.  

Alongside the expansion, Microsoft has also announced, later today, the arrival of Scarlet Nexus on Xbox Game Pass during its Tokyo Game Show broadcast.    

Read Also : Microsoft Releases New Updates and Features for Xbox App For Apple Users

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Microsoft Will Integrate Spotify In Windows 11 https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-will-integrate-spotify-in-windows-11/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/microsoft-will-integrate-spotify-in-windows-11/#respond Fri, 06 Aug 2021 13:09:45 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=43230 According to recent updates, Microsoft Corporation, an American Software giant, is planning to integrate Spotify, a Swedish audio streaming and media services provider, as a feature, into its all-new Windows 11.    This week, Panos Panay, Microsoft’s head of Windows, has teased the Focus Sessions Windows 11 feature on Twitter. The integration of both these technologies seems like a new way to focus on work.    Windows 11’s Focus Sessions will include Spotify integration which will allow users to create a focus timer to work while listening to music.   Also Read: Microsoft is Said to Buy RiskIQ, Cybersecurity Company   While Microsoft is yet to start testing its Focus Sessions in public builds of Windows 11, but from the teaser video, it appears to be built into the OS’s Clock app.    Windows 11’s Focus Sessions looks quite similar to the Pomodoro Technique, which is a method of managing time by breaking it down into smaller chunks of work with short breaks.   Today, there are a variety of Pomodoro websites and apps that helps users focus on a list of tasks.    Microsoft’s integration with Spotify might be their way of trying to stand out from the crowd.   Besides, this is also the first time that we are seeing some …

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According to recent updates, Microsoft Corporation, an American Software giant, is planning to integrate Spotify, a Swedish audio streaming and media services provider, as a feature, into its all-new Windows 11.   

This week, Panos Panay, Microsoft’s head of Windows, has teased the Focus Sessions Windows 11 feature on Twitter. The integration of both these technologies seems like a new way to focus on work.   

Windows 11’s Focus Sessions will include Spotify integration which will allow users to create a focus timer to work while listening to music.  

Also Read: Microsoft is Said to Buy RiskIQ, Cybersecurity Company  

While Microsoft is yet to start testing its Focus Sessions in public builds of Windows 11, but from the teaser video, it appears to be built into the OS’s Clock app.   

Windows 11’s Focus Sessions looks quite similar to the Pomodoro Technique, which is a method of managing time by breaking it down into smaller chunks of work with short breaks.  

Today, there are a variety of Pomodoro websites and apps that helps users focus on a list of tasks.   

Microsoft’s integration with Spotify might be their way of trying to stand out from the crowd.  

Besides, this is also the first time that we are seeing some significant Spotify integration in Windows since the Groove Music service retired in 2017.   

This is not the first time that both the giants have worked together. Previously, they have joined hands on a Windows 10 app and a separate app for Xbox consoles.  

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