<![CDATA[Geeks for your information - Microsoft Windows News]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/ Fri, 19 Jun 2026 18:25:05 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[Microsoft brings Advanced Shader Delivery to all Xbox PC app users, AMD support expan]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22065 Sat, 13 Jun 2026 07:52:27 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22065 Quote:Microsoft updates Advanced Shader Delivery with general availability in Xbox PC app

Xbox Insider signup no longer required.

[Image: AMD-ADVANCED-SHADER-DELIVERY-RDNA1-RDNA4...0x641.webp]

Microsoft has updated its Advanced Shader Delivery rollout for Windows PCs. The feature is now generally available through the Xbox PC app, with no Xbox Insider signup required.

The update was added to Microsoft’s DirectX Developer Blog on June 11. The original post was published on May 15 with a mention that the feature is only for Xbox Insiders at the time. Microsoft now says Advanced Shader Delivery has moved beyond that preview stage in the Xbox PC app.

AMD expands support to RDNA1

AMD support has also been expanded. Microsoft now lists RDNA 1, RDNA 2, RDNA 3, RDNA 3.5 and RDNA 4 as supported architectures. The current requirements also include Windows 11 24H2 or newer, Xbox Gaming Services 37.113.11003.0 or newer, and AMD Adrenalin 26.6.1 or newer.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft updates Advanced Shader Delivery with general availability in Xbox PC app

Xbox Insider signup no longer required.

[Image: AMD-ADVANCED-SHADER-DELIVERY-RDNA1-RDNA4...0x641.webp]

Microsoft has updated its Advanced Shader Delivery rollout for Windows PCs. The feature is now generally available through the Xbox PC app, with no Xbox Insider signup required.

The update was added to Microsoft’s DirectX Developer Blog on June 11. The original post was published on May 15 with a mention that the feature is only for Xbox Insiders at the time. Microsoft now says Advanced Shader Delivery has moved beyond that preview stage in the Xbox PC app.

AMD expands support to RDNA1

AMD support has also been expanded. Microsoft now lists RDNA 1, RDNA 2, RDNA 3, RDNA 3.5 and RDNA 4 as supported architectures. The current requirements also include Windows 11 24H2 or newer, Xbox Gaming Services 37.113.11003.0 or newer, and AMD Adrenalin 26.6.1 or newer.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Enables Nvidia GPU Support for Windows 11 Local Language Model APIs]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22062 Sat, 13 Jun 2026 07:45:16 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22062 Quote:Microsoft has updated the Windows 11 local AI documentation to confirm that language model APIs can now run on PCs that are not equipped with Copilot+ but have supported GPUs. Previously, these APIs were only available on Copilot+ PCs that had dedicated NPU hardware.

The change is currently aimed at developers and is not yet available to end users. Supported hardware includes Nvidia GeForce RTX 30 series GPUs and newer models with at least 6GB of VRAM.

What Changed and What This Enables on Non?Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft's updated developer documentation and a GitHub post describe a recent change. They state that language model APIs now run on GPU-equipped PCs that are not Copilot+ models, expanding local language model capabilities to more Windows 11 devices.

This represents a shift from Microsoft's original focus on Copilot+ PCs launched on June 18, 2024, which emphasized NPUs as necessary for local AI features in Windows.

While NPUs are not the only chips capable of AI workloads, Microsoft previously limited most built-in AI features to devices with NPUs.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has updated the Windows 11 local AI documentation to confirm that language model APIs can now run on PCs that are not equipped with Copilot+ but have supported GPUs. Previously, these APIs were only available on Copilot+ PCs that had dedicated NPU hardware.

The change is currently aimed at developers and is not yet available to end users. Supported hardware includes Nvidia GeForce RTX 30 series GPUs and newer models with at least 6GB of VRAM.

What Changed and What This Enables on Non?Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft's updated developer documentation and a GitHub post describe a recent change. They state that language model APIs now run on GPU-equipped PCs that are not Copilot+ models, expanding local language model capabilities to more Windows 11 devices.

This represents a shift from Microsoft's original focus on Copilot+ PCs launched on June 18, 2024, which emphasized NPUs as necessary for local AI features in Windows.

While NPUs are not the only chips capable of AI workloads, Microsoft previously limited most built-in AI features to devices with NPUs.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Windows 11 Low Latency Profile CPU boost for Start Menu is now available]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22060 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 06:52:39 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22060 Quote:Windows 11 June update adds CPU boost for faster Start menu and Search 

Microsoft is now rolling out Windows 11 KB5094126, the June 2026 cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. The update brings OS builds 26100.8655 and 26200.8655.
 
[Image: WINDOWS-11-START-MENU-BOOST-HERO-1200x624.jpg]

The release moves recent preview changes from KB5089573 into the regular Patch Tuesday update. This includes Microsoft’s new general performance change for app launches and core shell actions.

Short CPU bursts for Windows shell

Microsoft does not call the feature “Low Latency Profile” in the changelog. The official notes only say the update accelerates app launch and core shell experiences such as the Start menu, Search and Action Center.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Windows 11 June update adds CPU boost for faster Start menu and Search 

Microsoft is now rolling out Windows 11 KB5094126, the June 2026 cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. The update brings OS builds 26100.8655 and 26200.8655.
 
[Image: WINDOWS-11-START-MENU-BOOST-HERO-1200x624.jpg]

The release moves recent preview changes from KB5089573 into the regular Patch Tuesday update. This includes Microsoft’s new general performance change for app launches and core shell actions.

Short CPU bursts for Windows shell

Microsoft does not call the feature “Low Latency Profile” in the changelog. The official notes only say the update accelerates app launch and core shell experiences such as the Start menu, Search and Action Center.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft: Windows 11 KB5094126, KB5093998 finally stops trusting a critical system t]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22059 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 06:29:55 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22059 Quote:Windows June 2026 update hides untrusted desktop.ini folder customizations for security. However there are ways to restore trust. 

[Image: 1722586330_windows_11.jpg]

This week Microsoft released the Patch Tuesday updates for June 2026 with KB5094126 on Windows 11 25H2, 24H2, and KB5093998 on Windows 11 23H2. On Windows 10 22H2 it's under KB5094127.

Alongside the announced release notes for the new builds, Microsoft has revealed another change that is coming to Windows with these new releases. It has been confirmed that custom folders are getting a significant change with the June 2026 updates as such folders or folder names defined by desktop.ini will no longer appear after this update is successfully installed. While you may inititally think this is a bug with the new release, Microsoft has stated that this is in fact "expected behaviour" in its new support article regarding this which Neowin spotted today while browsing.

Essentially it's a security hardening measure such that custom folder presentations are treated as potentially unsafe whenever Windows is not sure about their origin and whether that desktop.ini folder can be trusted or not. Here is list of such untrusted files and folders:
  • Files downloaded from the internet that carry Mark-of-the-Web (MOTW).
  • Files copied from certain remote locations, such as some WebDAV or HTTP-based locations.
  • Files on network paths that are not classified as intranet or trusted by zone policy.
Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Windows June 2026 update hides untrusted desktop.ini folder customizations for security. However there are ways to restore trust. 

[Image: 1722586330_windows_11.jpg]

This week Microsoft released the Patch Tuesday updates for June 2026 with KB5094126 on Windows 11 25H2, 24H2, and KB5093998 on Windows 11 23H2. On Windows 10 22H2 it's under KB5094127.

Alongside the announced release notes for the new builds, Microsoft has revealed another change that is coming to Windows with these new releases. It has been confirmed that custom folders are getting a significant change with the June 2026 updates as such folders or folder names defined by desktop.ini will no longer appear after this update is successfully installed. While you may inititally think this is a bug with the new release, Microsoft has stated that this is in fact "expected behaviour" in its new support article regarding this which Neowin spotted today while browsing.

Essentially it's a security hardening measure such that custom folder presentations are treated as potentially unsafe whenever Windows is not sure about their origin and whether that desktop.ini folder can be trusted or not. Here is list of such untrusted files and folders:
  • Files downloaded from the internet that carry Mark-of-the-Web (MOTW).
  • Files copied from certain remote locations, such as some WebDAV or HTTP-based locations.
  • Files on network paths that are not classified as intranet or trusted by zone policy.
Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft confirms issue with custom folder icons and localized folder names on Windo]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22058 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 06:27:43 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22058 Quote:There are not many good reasons for being first when it comes to installing new updates for the Windows operating system. In fact, being second has the potential of avoiding the usual assortment of bugs that happen to be confirmed regularly after releases.

Take the June 2026 security updates as an example. Microsoft confirmed a new bug just days after releasing the update. It affects Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems that use custom folder icons or localized folder names that are defined by desktop.ini.

First spotted by Deskmodder, the issue is described on a new support page on Microsoft’s website:
 
Quote:After installing a Windows security update released on or after June 9, 2026, you might notice one or both of the following behaviors for some folders:
A custom folder icon defined by desktop.ini no longer appears.

A localized folder display name defined by desktop.ini no longer appears, and the folder shows its original name instead.

This behavior might occur even when the user has not changed an application or folder configuration. ​​​​​​

Microsoft notes that this behavior is expected, as it introduced a security hardening change that affects desktop.ini.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:There are not many good reasons for being first when it comes to installing new updates for the Windows operating system. In fact, being second has the potential of avoiding the usual assortment of bugs that happen to be confirmed regularly after releases.

Take the June 2026 security updates as an example. Microsoft confirmed a new bug just days after releasing the update. It affects Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems that use custom folder icons or localized folder names that are defined by desktop.ini.

First spotted by Deskmodder, the issue is described on a new support page on Microsoft’s website:
 
Quote:After installing a Windows security update released on or after June 9, 2026, you might notice one or both of the following behaviors for some folders:
A custom folder icon defined by desktop.ini no longer appears.

A localized folder display name defined by desktop.ini no longer appears, and the folder shows its original name instead.

This behavior might occur even when the user has not changed an application or folder configuration. ​​​​​​

Microsoft notes that this behavior is expected, as it introduced a security hardening change that affects desktop.ini.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Releases Windows 11 Insider Builds With Unlimited Update Pause Extension an]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22047 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 09:22:29 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22047 Quote:Microsoft has rolled out new Windows 11 Insider Preview builds on June 8 for both the Beta and Experimental channels. The update introduces a new 26H1 build train and allows users to extend Windows Update pauses as many times as needed. Several bugs have also been addressed in this release.

New Build Structure for Windows 11 26H1

Microsoft is rolling out a new build number series for Windows 11 version 26H1. Insiders in the Experimental (26H1) channel will now receive builds in the 28100 series, while a new Beta (26H1) channel based on the 28000 series is also launching.

Insiders can switch between the Beta (26H1) and Experimental (26H1) channels through Settings, Windows Update, Windows Insider Program, and by selecting the experience.

This switch does not require a clean reinstall of Windows and is handled as an in-place upgrade. Microsoft has noted that Windows 11 26H1 is a targeted release for specific silicon, including Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Series devices.

Most Insiders are advised to stay on the default Windows core version in the Advanced options, rather than specifically selecting 26H1.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has rolled out new Windows 11 Insider Preview builds on June 8 for both the Beta and Experimental channels. The update introduces a new 26H1 build train and allows users to extend Windows Update pauses as many times as needed. Several bugs have also been addressed in this release.

New Build Structure for Windows 11 26H1

Microsoft is rolling out a new build number series for Windows 11 version 26H1. Insiders in the Experimental (26H1) channel will now receive builds in the 28100 series, while a new Beta (26H1) channel based on the 28000 series is also launching.

Insiders can switch between the Beta (26H1) and Experimental (26H1) channels through Settings, Windows Update, Windows Insider Program, and by selecting the experience.

This switch does not require a clean reinstall of Windows and is handled as an in-place upgrade. Microsoft has noted that Windows 11 26H1 is a targeted release for specific silicon, including Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Series devices.

Most Insiders are advised to stay on the default Windows core version in the Advanced options, rather than specifically selecting 26H1.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Fixes Windows 11 KB5089549 Install Failures Caused by Limited EFI Partition]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22024 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 07:13:23 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22024 Quote:Microsoft has fixed the known issue that caused installation failures and 0x800f0922 errors when deploying the May 26, 2026, Windows 11 security update KB5089549.

The solution is included in the KB5089573 preview cumulative update released on May 26 and will be available to all users through the June Patch Tuesday updates later this month.

The failures were due to insufficient free space on the EFI System Partition (ESP), which led the update to roll back automatically on affected devices.

What Was Causing KB5089549 Install Failures and How to Fix Them

Microsoft confirmed two weeks ago that the problem affected devices with limited free space on the EFI System Partition, especially those with 10MB or less available. On these systems, the installation process would begin normally but fail during the reboot phase at around 35 to 36 percent completion.

Affected users saw a message stating, "Something didn't go as planned. Undoing changes," when the update rolled back. Logs from impacted systems included entries like "SpaceCheck" and "ServicingBootFiles failed," which pointed to insufficient free space on the EFI System Partition.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has fixed the known issue that caused installation failures and 0x800f0922 errors when deploying the May 26, 2026, Windows 11 security update KB5089549.

The solution is included in the KB5089573 preview cumulative update released on May 26 and will be available to all users through the June Patch Tuesday updates later this month.

The failures were due to insufficient free space on the EFI System Partition (ESP), which led the update to roll back automatically on affected devices.

What Was Causing KB5089549 Install Failures and How to Fix Them

Microsoft confirmed two weeks ago that the problem affected devices with limited free space on the EFI System Partition, especially those with 10MB or less available. On these systems, the installation process would begin normally but fail during the reboot phase at around 35 to 36 percent completion.

Affected users saw a message stating, "Something didn't go as planned. Undoing changes," when the update rolled back. Logs from impacted systems included entries like "SpaceCheck" and "ServicingBootFiles failed," which pointed to insufficient free space on the EFI System Partition.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Rolls Out A New Update With Low Latency Profile for Faster Windows 11 Perfo]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22010 Sat, 30 May 2026 07:58:27 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=22010 Quote:Microsoft has started rolling out update KB5089573 for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, which introduces the Low Latency Profile (LLP) feature.

The update is mainly a performance improvement aimed at speeding up app launches and core shell experiences, including the Start menu, Search, and Action Center.

Microsoft reports that LLP can deliver up to 70% faster flyouts and reduce app launch times by 40%. This update is part of Windows K2, Microsoft's ongoing effort to address longstanding performance issues in Windows 11.

How Windows 11’s New Low-Latency Profile Works

LLP briefly increases CPU clock speeds when Windows detects an interaction that might otherwise feel slow. Instead of gradually ramping up the processor speed, Windows applies a short burst of maximum frequency that lasts between one and three seconds, allowing the task to complete before returning to normal operation.

Microsoft describes LLP as a standard part of modern operating system behavior. Similar techniques are already in use in macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems to keep user-facing interactions responsive.

This feature targets specific scenarios where slower performance is most noticeable, such as opening the Start menu, triggering Search, launching apps, or bringing up flyouts and context menus.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has started rolling out update KB5089573 for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, which introduces the Low Latency Profile (LLP) feature.

The update is mainly a performance improvement aimed at speeding up app launches and core shell experiences, including the Start menu, Search, and Action Center.

Microsoft reports that LLP can deliver up to 70% faster flyouts and reduce app launch times by 40%. This update is part of Windows K2, Microsoft's ongoing effort to address longstanding performance issues in Windows 11.

How Windows 11’s New Low-Latency Profile Works

LLP briefly increases CPU clock speeds when Windows detects an interaction that might otherwise feel slow. Instead of gradually ramping up the processor speed, Windows applies a short burst of maximum frequency that lasts between one and three seconds, allowing the task to complete before returning to normal operation.

Microsoft describes LLP as a standard part of modern operating system behavior. Similar techniques are already in use in macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems to keep user-facing interactions responsive.

This feature targets specific scenarios where slower performance is most noticeable, such as opening the Start menu, triggering Search, launching apps, or bringing up flyouts and context menus.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Windows 11 New Build Adds Screen Tint, Voice Isolation, and Plug-and-Play Braille Dis]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21998 Tue, 26 May 2026 06:56:33 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21998 Quote:Microsoft has released the Windows 11 Insider Experimental Preview Build 26300.8497, which introduces several new accessibility features. These include a Screen Tint option, Voice Isolation in Voice Access, and improvements to Magnifier and Narrator.

The update also addresses multiple issues reported in previous builds.

New Screen Tint Accessibility Setting in Windows 11 Build 26300.8497

A new Screen Tint setting adds a color overlay across the entire display to help reduce screen brightness. Microsoft describes it as a tool for users who experience eye strain or light sensitivity during long periods of use.

The setting can be found in Settings under Accessibility in the Vision section. Users can select from six preset colors or customize their own, and adjust the tint strength from a gentle wash to full intensity.

Screen Tint works independently of Night Light. While Night Light reduces blue light to support sleep cycles, Screen Tint decreases overall screen brightness to lessen eye fatigue during the day. Both features can be used at the same time.

It is important to note that Screen Tint cannot be enabled at the same time as Color Filters. Turning on one will automatically disable the other. Users who depend on Color Filters should keep Screen Tint turned off.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has released the Windows 11 Insider Experimental Preview Build 26300.8497, which introduces several new accessibility features. These include a Screen Tint option, Voice Isolation in Voice Access, and improvements to Magnifier and Narrator.

The update also addresses multiple issues reported in previous builds.

New Screen Tint Accessibility Setting in Windows 11 Build 26300.8497

A new Screen Tint setting adds a color overlay across the entire display to help reduce screen brightness. Microsoft describes it as a tool for users who experience eye strain or light sensitivity during long periods of use.

The setting can be found in Settings under Accessibility in the Vision section. Users can select from six preset colors or customize their own, and adjust the tint strength from a gentle wash to full intensity.

Screen Tint works independently of Night Light. While Night Light reduces blue light to support sleep cycles, Screen Tint decreases overall screen brightness to lessen eye fatigue during the day. Both features can be used at the same time.

It is important to note that Screen Tint cannot be enabled at the same time as Color Filters. Turning on one will automatically disable the other. Users who depend on Color Filters should keep Screen Tint turned off.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Phasing Out SMS Authentication Codes for Personal Accounts in Favor of Pass]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21992 Sat, 23 May 2026 07:08:50 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21992 Quote:Microsoft has announced that it will discontinue SMS-based authentication and account recovery for personal Microsoft accounts. The company updated its support documentation to reflect this change, having previously hinted at the move earlier this year. Going forward, SMS codes will be replaced with passkeys, passwordless accounts, and verified secondary email addresses.

While Microsoft has not set a specific date for the transition, it is introducing a redesigned authentication process that encourages users to set up a passkey during sign-in.

Why Microsoft Is Phasing Out SMS Codes for Personal Accounts And What It Recommends Instead

Microsoft considers SMS-based authentication a security risk. The company points out that attackers can exploit plaintext mobile messages for fraud, phishing, and SIM swapping. Additionally, SMS authentication faces reliability issues, with codes sometimes not arriving or arriving late.

This change puts Microsoft in line with a broader industry trend away from SMS two-factor authentication, which security organizations like NIST have recommended deprecating for several years.

When users sign into a Microsoft account, they will notice a new option called "sign in faster" that creates a passkey on the device. Passkeys are cryptographic credentials that authenticate the user without needing a password or SMS code. They are linked to a specific device and can be unlocked using biometrics or a device PIN.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has announced that it will discontinue SMS-based authentication and account recovery for personal Microsoft accounts. The company updated its support documentation to reflect this change, having previously hinted at the move earlier this year. Going forward, SMS codes will be replaced with passkeys, passwordless accounts, and verified secondary email addresses.

While Microsoft has not set a specific date for the transition, it is introducing a redesigned authentication process that encourages users to set up a passkey during sign-in.

Why Microsoft Is Phasing Out SMS Codes for Personal Accounts And What It Recommends Instead

Microsoft considers SMS-based authentication a security risk. The company points out that attackers can exploit plaintext mobile messages for fraud, phishing, and SIM swapping. Additionally, SMS authentication faces reliability issues, with codes sometimes not arriving or arriving late.

This change puts Microsoft in line with a broader industry trend away from SMS two-factor authentication, which security organizations like NIST have recommended deprecating for several years.

When users sign into a Microsoft account, they will notice a new option called "sign in faster" that creates a passkey on the device. Passkeys are cryptographic credentials that authenticate the user without needing a password or SMS code. They are linked to a specific device and can be unlocked using biometrics or a device PIN.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Confirms Windows 11 May Update KB5089549 Fails With Error 0x800f0922 on Dev]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21988 Thu, 21 May 2026 10:39:27 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21988 Quote:Microsoft has confirmed that the Windows 11 May 2026 Security Update KB5089549, released on May 12, is failing to install on some devices running versions 24H2 and 25H2. The installation often fails during the reboot process, usually around 35 percent, and displays error code 0x800f0922. In affected systems, the update rolls back and shows a message indicating that changes are being undone.

The main cause appears to be limited free space in the EFI System Partition. Devices with 10MB or less available space are most likely to experience this issue.

What Windows 11 KB5089549 Installation Failures Look Like

In addition to the rollback message, affected systems might display related entries in C:\Windows\Logs\CBS\CBS.log that point to insufficient free space on the EFI System Partition. Examples of these log entries include:
  • SpaceCheck: Insufficient free space
  • ServicingBootFiles failed. Error = 0x70
  • SpaceCheck: used by third-party or OEM files outside of Microsoft's boot directories
These messages indicate that the issue is related to space rather than a broader problem with the installation process.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has confirmed that the Windows 11 May 2026 Security Update KB5089549, released on May 12, is failing to install on some devices running versions 24H2 and 25H2. The installation often fails during the reboot process, usually around 35 percent, and displays error code 0x800f0922. In affected systems, the update rolls back and shows a message indicating that changes are being undone.

The main cause appears to be limited free space in the EFI System Partition. Devices with 10MB or less available space are most likely to experience this issue.

What Windows 11 KB5089549 Installation Failures Look Like

In addition to the rollback message, affected systems might display related entries in C:\Windows\Logs\CBS\CBS.log that point to insufficient free space on the EFI System Partition. Examples of these log entries include:
  • SpaceCheck: Insufficient free space
  • ServicingBootFiles failed. Error = 0x70
  • SpaceCheck: used by third-party or OEM files outside of Microsoft's boot directories
These messages indicate that the issue is related to space rather than a broader problem with the installation process.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[About that new SecureBoot folder in C:/Windows]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21981 Wed, 20 May 2026 06:05:16 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21981 Quote:If you’ve noticed a mysterious new SecureBoot folder sitting in your C:/Windows directory following the May 2026 Patch Tuesday, you are not alone.

The folder, which has a subfolder named ExampleRolloutScripts that contains several PowerShell scripts, is a harmless administrative helper introduced in the latest security updates for Windows 10 and Windows 11.

According to official Microsoft guidance, these scripts are designed primarily for enterprise IT administrators to monitor the status of the upcoming UEFI CA 2023 Secure Boot certificate updates and to safely automate their deployment across Active Directory environments.

While essential for corporate networks preparing for this critical security transition, average users can safely ignore this tiny 450 KB folder for now.

The transition to the new UEFI CA 2023 Secure Boot certificates mark a critical security change for the Windows ecosystem. It is made necessary by the impending expiration of current certificates that were issued a long time ago.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:If you’ve noticed a mysterious new SecureBoot folder sitting in your C:/Windows directory following the May 2026 Patch Tuesday, you are not alone.

The folder, which has a subfolder named ExampleRolloutScripts that contains several PowerShell scripts, is a harmless administrative helper introduced in the latest security updates for Windows 10 and Windows 11.

According to official Microsoft guidance, these scripts are designed primarily for enterprise IT administrators to monitor the status of the upcoming UEFI CA 2023 Secure Boot certificate updates and to safely automate their deployment across Active Directory environments.

While essential for corporate networks preparing for this critical security transition, average users can safely ignore this tiny 450 KB folder for now.

The transition to the new UEFI CA 2023 Secure Boot certificates mark a critical security change for the Windows ecosystem. It is made necessary by the impending expiration of current certificates that were issued a long time ago.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Windows 11 Build 26300.8493 Brings Movable Taskbar, Smaller Taskbar Mode, and Fluid D]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21978 Sat, 16 May 2026 16:55:27 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21978 Quote:Microsoft has released Windows 11 Build 26300.8493 to the Experimental channel. This update introduces the option to move the Taskbar to any edge of the screen for the first time since Windows 11’s launch. It also adds a smaller Taskbar option, updates Widgets behavior, expands Fluid Dictation language support, and features a redesigned set of system spinners.

The ability to move the Taskbar was a frequently requested feature since Windows 11 removed the Taskbar positioning options in 2021.

This change was part of the Windows K2 initiative, Microsoft's effort to address long-standing complaints about Windows 11.

Movable Taskbar and New Smaller Mode

The Taskbar can now be moved to different positions through Settings, Personalization, Taskbar, Taskbar behaviors. You can choose to place it at the bottom, top, left, or right of the screen.

Tooltips, flyouts, and animations still originate from the Taskbar in each position. Most customization options, including the small Taskbar setting and the option to never combine icons, work across all locations.

However, some features are not yet available in the alternative positions. Touch gestures, the Search box, and Ask Copilot are still being developed. Auto-hidden and touch-optimized Taskbar modes are not supported when the Taskbar is moved.

A new option to show smaller taskbar buttons is now available in Settings under Personalization, Taskbar, Taskbar behaviors. When enabled, it reduces both the size of icons and the overall height of the Taskbar. Start, Search, and the system tray scale together to keep everything aligned.

The default Taskbar appearance remains unchanged for users who do not enable this setting. Microsoft has indicated that further adjustments to Taskbar resizing are currently in development.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has released Windows 11 Build 26300.8493 to the Experimental channel. This update introduces the option to move the Taskbar to any edge of the screen for the first time since Windows 11’s launch. It also adds a smaller Taskbar option, updates Widgets behavior, expands Fluid Dictation language support, and features a redesigned set of system spinners.

The ability to move the Taskbar was a frequently requested feature since Windows 11 removed the Taskbar positioning options in 2021.

This change was part of the Windows K2 initiative, Microsoft's effort to address long-standing complaints about Windows 11.

Movable Taskbar and New Smaller Mode

The Taskbar can now be moved to different positions through Settings, Personalization, Taskbar, Taskbar behaviors. You can choose to place it at the bottom, top, left, or right of the screen.

Tooltips, flyouts, and animations still originate from the Taskbar in each position. Most customization options, including the small Taskbar setting and the option to never combine icons, work across all locations.

However, some features are not yet available in the alternative positions. Touch gestures, the Search box, and Ask Copilot are still being developed. Auto-hidden and touch-optimized Taskbar modes are not supported when the Taskbar is moved.

A new option to show smaller taskbar buttons is now available in Settings under Personalization, Taskbar, Taskbar behaviors. When enabled, it reduces both the size of icons and the overall height of the Taskbar. Start, Search, and the system tray scale together to keep everything aligned.

The default Taskbar appearance remains unchanged for users who do not enable this setting. Microsoft has indicated that further adjustments to Taskbar resizing are currently in development.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Windows 11 Emoji Picker Search Box Disappears in Some Builds, Restarting Explorer Res]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21974 Fri, 15 May 2026 07:45:11 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21974 Quote:A bug in Windows 11 is causing the search box in the built-in emoji picker to disappear, which means users can't search for emojis by name. Several users have reported the issue, and Windows Central has confirmed it in the Windows 11 Insider Beta channel.

Microsoft has not yet acknowledged the bug or provided an official fix. Restarting the PC often resolves the problem, but there is a faster workaround that takes about 30 seconds.

How to Restore the Missing Emoji Picker Search Box in Windows 11

The issue seems to be related to UI rendering in Windows Explorer. Restarting the Explorer process usually refreshes the affected interface elements and restores the search box functionality.

To do this, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Locate Windows Explorer in the list of processes. Right-click on it and choose Restart.

The taskbar will disappear briefly and then reload as Windows Explorer restarts. Once it reappears, open the emoji picker with Win + . (period) should display the search box correctly.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:A bug in Windows 11 is causing the search box in the built-in emoji picker to disappear, which means users can't search for emojis by name. Several users have reported the issue, and Windows Central has confirmed it in the Windows 11 Insider Beta channel.

Microsoft has not yet acknowledged the bug or provided an official fix. Restarting the PC often resolves the problem, but there is a faster workaround that takes about 30 seconds.

How to Restore the Missing Emoji Picker Search Box in Windows 11

The issue seems to be related to UI rendering in Windows Explorer. Restarting the Explorer process usually refreshes the affected interface elements and restores the search box functionality.

To do this, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Locate Windows Explorer in the list of processes. Right-click on it and choose Restart.

The taskbar will disappear briefly and then reload as Windows Explorer restarts. Once it reappears, open the emoji picker with Win + . (period) should display the search box correctly.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Introduces Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery to Roll Back Problematic Windows]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21973 Fri, 15 May 2026 07:43:54 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21973 Quote:Microsoft has announced a new feature called Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery, which automatically rolls back problematic drivers delivered through Windows Update to a known-good version without needing user or hardware partner intervention. The feature is set to be released in September 2026 after several months of testing.

This mechanism aims to fill a gap in the current driver recovery process. When a driver distributed via Windows Update is found to have quality issues, fixing the problem currently relies on hardware partners submitting an updated driver or users manually uninstalling the problematic one. This can leave devices running on low-quality drivers for an extended period.

How Microsoft’s Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery Works

Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery is started by Microsoft from the Hardware Dev Center Driver Shiproom when a driver update request is rejected during shiproom review for quality reasons.

This recovery process replaces the problematic driver on devices via the Windows Update system, restoring the previous driver version or the next best available one from Windows Update.

The system operates through the existing Windows Update infrastructure, requiring no additional client software, partner tools, or user actions. Devices that cannot find a driver approved by the Driver Shiproom will not attempt Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has announced a new feature called Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery, which automatically rolls back problematic drivers delivered through Windows Update to a known-good version without needing user or hardware partner intervention. The feature is set to be released in September 2026 after several months of testing.

This mechanism aims to fill a gap in the current driver recovery process. When a driver distributed via Windows Update is found to have quality issues, fixing the problem currently relies on hardware partners submitting an updated driver or users manually uninstalling the problematic one. This can leave devices running on low-quality drivers for an extended period.

How Microsoft’s Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery Works

Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery is started by Microsoft from the Hardware Dev Center Driver Shiproom when a driver update request is rejected during shiproom review for quality reasons.

This recovery process replaces the problematic driver on devices via the Windows Update system, restoring the previous driver version or the next best available one from Windows Update.

The system operates through the existing Windows Update infrastructure, requiring no additional client software, partner tools, or user actions. Devices that cannot find a driver approved by the Driver Shiproom will not attempt Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery.

Continue Reading... ]]>