Media Player Update
The latest Media Player Update coverage — news, analysis, and updates from the WindowsNews.AI desk.
AMD EPYC 4545P triples SQL Server throughput over older Xeon on Windows Server 2025
AMD's EPYC 4545P processor delivers up to three times the OLTP throughput of an older Intel Xeon system in Windows Server 2025 environments, according to new benchmarks by Principled Technologies. The results highlight AMD's growing performance lead in entry-level servers, promising significant database acceleration for small and medium businesses.
Catalent Deploys AI-Powered Quality Management, Qai, Across Global CDMO Network Using Microsoft Azure
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Harvey Legal AI Debuts as Agent and Plugin in Microsoft 365 Copilot
Harvey, the legal AI startup, announced on June 16, 2026, that its technology is now available as an agent inside Microsoft 365 Copilot and as a plugin for Microsoft 365 Copilot Cowork. This integration allows legal professionals to use Harvey's document analysis, contract review, and legal research capabilities directly within Microsoft Word, Outlook, Teams, and the collaborative Copilot Cowork chat. The move positions Harvey as a key player in the embedded AI agent market for legal technology.
Apple’s M4 iMac Sets New All-in-One Standard for 2026, Forcing Windows PCs to Adapt
Apple's M4 iMac redefines the all-in-one category with its tightly integrated design, powerful efficiency, and stunning display, setting a high bar for 2026. Windows AIO manufacturers are competing fiercely by offering modularity, touch displays, and diverse processor choices, giving users more flexibility and upgrade options. This guide compares key aspects such as performance, design, webcam quality, service life, and software ecosystems to help buyers make an informed decision.
Windows 11 God Mode: The Forgotten Shortcut That Still Gives You Total Control
Windows 11 still supports the classic 'God Mode' folder shortcut, which aggregates over 200 Control Panel applets and administrative tools into a single searchable File Explorer window. The technique uses a special CLSID and requires only a new folder with the correct name. This article explains how to create it, what’s inside, and why it remains an indispensable tool for power users, IT pros, and anyone frustrated by the modern Settings app.
Accelerate Windows 11 & 10: The 2026 Guide to Slashing Lag and Reclaiming Speed
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Windows 11 Media Player’s Latest Update Adds Caption Styling, but Heavy Performance Remains a Concern
Microsoft's June 12, 2026 Insider update for Windows 11 Media Player brings new caption customization options and playback fixes, but early testers report that the app still feels resource-heavy. The update, version 11.2605.14.0, is available in Experimental channels and aims to improve accessibility and user experience.
Copilot Cowork GA Brings Metered AI to Microsoft 365 with Edge Browser Automation
Microsoft has made Copilot Cowork generally available for all Microsoft 365 Copilot tenants as of June 16, 2026, introducing pay-as-you-go metered billing based on the AI compute used by delegated tasks. The update adds web automation via Microsoft Edge and the ability for agents to create custom imagery, alongside extensive IT admin controls for spending caps, model restrictions, and full action auditing.
Microsoft’s Limited-Time Surface Pro Bundle Includes Keyboard, Cuts Copilot+ PC Price Tag
Microsoft is running a limited-time bundle for its Surface Pro 12-inch (11th Edition) that includes the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard at no extra cost, effectively lowering the price of the Copilot+ PC by up to $350. The offer covers multiple Snapdragon X configurations and makes the device more competitive against the iPad Pro and other AI-focused laptops, boosting accessibility to on-device AI features like Copilot and Windows Studio Effects.
Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline hits 1000Hz wireless on PC, launching May 2026.
Turtle Beach released the Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller in May 2026, an officially licensed gamepad for Xbox, Windows, and Android with a standout 1000Hz wireless polling rate on PC. The controller offers 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, and USB-C connectivity, two programmable buttons, and likely audio features like Superhuman Hearing. Priced in the mid-range, it aims to disrupt the market with low-latency performance previously unseen in wireless Xbox-compatible controllers.
Gears of War: E-Day PC Specs Demand 130GB SSD, RTX 2060 Minimum, Windows 10 22H2
Gears of War: E-Day's official PC requirements demand a 130GB SSD, 12GB RAM, and at least an RTX 2060 or RX 6600, targeting Windows 10 22H2 or newer. The spec leap from Gears 5 reflects the shift to Unreal Engine 5 and DirectStorage, leaving mechanical drives and older GPUs behind ahead of the October 6, 2026 launch.
Windows 11 Build 26220.8680 Silences Widgets: No More Hover, Badges, or Pushy Alerts by Default
Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.8680 makes Widgets silent by default, disabling hover-to-open behavior, taskbar notification badges, and certain daily alerts. The changes address years of user complaints about an intrusive Widgets board, and they’re expected to ship widely with version 26H2 this fall.
2026 Surface Pro and Laptop Prices Jump to $1,499 and $1,599 as Microsoft Goes Premium-Only
Microsoft's 2026 Surface Pro and Surface Laptop will start at $1,499 and $1,599, respectively, abandoning the sub-$1,000 price tier in a decisive push toward premium Windows on Arm. Powered by Qualcomm's next-gen Snapdragon X2, the devices target Apple's MacBook Air with performance and AI features, but the price jump risks alienating education and mainstream buyers. The move signals Microsoft's confidence that Arm hardware can finally command flagship prices.