Microsoft Payments
The latest Microsoft Payments coverage — news, analysis, and updates from the WindowsNews.AI desk.
Windows 11’s Media Player Ramps Up RAM Usage to 377MB—and Still Lacks Essential Codecs
Recent tests show Windows 11’s modern Media Player uses 377 MB of RAM idle—over three times the 103 MB of classic WMP. It also lacks native AC-3 playback and requires a paid HEVC extension, frustrating users who value performance and wide codec support. The legacy player remains a lightweight, more capable alternative.
Bungie Layoffs Loom After Destiny 2's 'Monument of Triumph' Finale
Bungie is reportedly planning summer 2026 layoffs following the release of Destiny 2: Monument of Triumph, the final live-service update for the nine-year-old shooter. The move reflects Sony's shifting live-service strategy and the studio's redirection toward Marathon, while the Destiny community braces for the end of an era.
Microsoft Kills Tap-to-Approve: Personal Accounts Forced to Enter Two-Digit Codes in Authenticator
Microsoft is rolling out a mandatory update for personal accounts that replaces the tap-to-approve push notification in Microsoft Authenticator with a two-digit number entry. The change, already enforced for enterprise users, is designed to stop MFA fatigue attacks and adversary-in-the-middle phishing. Users must now match a code displayed on the sign-in screen with the one they type in the app, adding a crucial anti-phishing layer while preserving biometric convenience.
Microsoft’s New Outlook Finally Lets You Attach Files Offline and Send When Back Online
Microsoft's new Outlook for Windows will finally support adding email attachments while offline, with a rollout reported for June 2026. The feature queues drafts and automatically sends them when back online, addressing a major pain point for users and aligning the app more closely with the classic Outlook experience.
Microsoft’s Latest Insider Build Spares You From Bing: Windows 11 Search Now Handles Typos Locally
Windows 11 Insider Build 26300.8687 introduces fuzzy matching for local app names, keeping misspelled queries from launching web searches. The on-device algorithm corrects typos, abbreviations, and malformed queries to surface installed applications instantly, addressing a long-standing user frustration.
Microsoft’s Surface Pro and Laptop Go Arm-Only with Snapdragon X2 Chips
Microsoft announced on June 16, 2026, that its upcoming Surface Pro and Surface Laptop will exclusively use Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 processors, marking a major shift to Arm for its mainstream devices. The new chips promise significant battery life and performance improvements, while Windows on Arm continues to mature with better app compatibility. This move signals Microsoft's commitment to challenging Apple's M-series and reshaping the PC landscape.
Ricoh SP-2240N Network Scanner Arrives for Windows Small Businesses at $389.99
PFU America released the Ricoh SP-2240N network document scanner on June 16, 2026, for small businesses and departmental teams. Priced at $389.99, it emphasizes PC-less operation and direct network connectivity for Windows environments. The compact scanner is positioned as an affordable, walk-up solution for digitizing documents to shared folders, email, and cloud storage without a dedicated computer.
11 built-in apps to ditch on Windows 11 in 2026 for power tools
Windows 11's built-in apps cover the basics, but power users need more robust, customizable tools. This article details the 11 default applications you should replace in 2026, from video editing to sticky notes, with top-tier third-party alternatives that boost productivity and streamline workflows.
Samsung’s Spidey Tracker Turns Web Browsers into a Spider-Man Fandom Hub
Samsung and Sony Pictures launched the web-based Spidey Tracker on June 17, 2026, for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, letting fans track fictional Spider-Man sightings, unlock exclusive film content, and see Samsung Galaxy foldables in action. The progressive web app works on any browser, including Windows PCs, and integrates with Phone Link for a seamless cross-device experience. It represents a new approach to movie marketing that blends fandom, product placement, and web technology.
Exclusive: Microsoft Debuts Trio of Abstract 2880×1920 Wallpapers for Surface Pro 2026 with Snapdragon X2
Microsoft has released three exclusive abstract wallpapers for the 2026 Surface Pro, optimized at 2880×1920 resolution to match the 13-inch display and color-coordinated with the device’s hardware. The bundle arrives alongside the Snapdragon X2-powered tablet, highlighting the premium integration of Windows on Arm and continuing Microsoft’s legacy of meticulous wallpaper design.
Windows 11 Insider Build 26300.8687 Introduces Typo-Tolerant Search for Apps & Settings
Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8687, released June 12, 2026, introduces fuzzy search for apps and settings, forgiving typos, missing letters, and extra characters. This long-requested improvement reduces friction in daily workflows and brings Windows closer to parity with macOS Spotlight, though currently limited to local apps and settings. Insiders in the Dev Channel can test the feature now, with broader rollout expected in future updates.
Pension Fund Lawsuit Accuses Microsoft of Hiding AI Infrastructure Costs and Azure Overcapacity
A Michigan police and fire pension fund has sued Microsoft, alleging the company misled investors about Azure growth, AI infrastructure costs, and Copilot adoption, while the Windows division faced resource pressures. The lawsuit claims these omissions led to massive stock losses when the truth emerged in 2026, and it highlights internal tensions between AI ambitions and the Windows roadmap.
Hands-On Help: Microsoft Recruits Chronically Ill Remote Workers for Tactile Device Study
Microsoft Research is recruiting adults with chronic illnesses who work from home to test small tangible devices aimed at easing computer-based tasks. The study, announced on June 17, 2026, could lead to new physical accessories that complement Windows accessibility features and improve remote work experiences for those with ongoing health conditions.