Microsoft Offers Windows 10 October Update

They say that big things come in small packages. But when Microsoft releases its second semi-annual Windows 10 update next month, it will be mostly small things in one big package.

That’s not to say users aren’t happy with a fixed startup window, a pre-installed browser, and a variety of nips and tucks, but this update continues Microsoft’s tradition of introducing helpful but smaller updates and tweaks in the fall, while save more prominent changes for spring.

This version of Windows 10 is the first to come with the new Chromium-based Edge browser pre-installed. It has a Collections feature that easily captures and stores web page snippets in a scrolling window on the right side of the screen. Just drag a page into the window and review it at any time, or send saved items to Word or Excel.

The vertical browser tabs make it easy to control a large number of open pages. Smart Copy saves snippets along with their formatting, including images, links, and text styles.

Edge also has a built-in tracking prevention capability and blocks unwanted programs.

The Widows 10 update provides a useful boost to the Alt + Tab function that has traditionally been used to switch between open applications. You can now rotate through several of the most recently used tabs within the Edge browser.

The Start menu is being revamped. The functionality basically remains the same, but users will notice a cleaner look dotted with new, simple-designed icons for apps, semi-transparent tiled background, and options for light and dark themes.

Windows boss Brandon LeBlanc stated on the Windows blog that the new version, Build 19042.508, is the “final version” of the update. Testing will continue for a few more weeks.

The update will be available to everyone next month, but registered members of the Windows Insider program can now get copies of the Release Preview Channel.

Microsoft has also introduced new features for the Your Phone app. Currently, the program allows Android users to mirror their phone screen to a desktop PC.

Now, more integration between phone and PC is available. Users will also be able to view links, pictures and notes acquired on their phones on their desktop PCs. Tapping the share button and selecting “your phone companion app” will transfer pictures and files to Windows 10 PC.

Also, contacts can now be easily shared between devices. A new Contacts section will be added to the Your Phone desktop application. When selecting contacts, phone numbers, email addresses, and home and work addresses appear. You can send a text message or make a call from the application. An overhaul for the appearance of the Your Phone app is also planned.

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