This week has been eventful for Microsoft, as the tech giant has made several significant announcements that have caught the attention of users and industry experts alike. From the impending shutdown of Skype to the integration of AI in popular games like Call of Duty, and the introduction of a new free version of Office with ads, the company appears to be shifting its focus in several directions. Additionally, the unexpected assistance provided by Microsoft Copilot in pirating Windows 11 has raised eyebrows. Let's delve deeper into these developments.
In a surprising move, Skype is set to shut down on May 5, 2025. Microsoft confirmed this cutoff date shortly after rumors surfaced about the platform's demise. Launched in 2003, Skype quickly became a leading platform for video calls and messaging. Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011 for a staggering $8.5 billion, but over the past 14 years, the platform has struggled to maintain its relevance amidst fierce competition from Zoom, WhatsApp, and iMessage.
Despite multiple app updates and a shift in focus, Skype has failed to compete effectively. Microsoft's pivot towards Teams further indicates that the company is moving away from Skype, leaving many users to ponder the platform's legacy as it approaches its final days.
This past week, Activision confirmed that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Warzone feature AI-generated content. Speculation about AI's role in these games had been rampant, particularly after bizarre character designs, such as a zombie Santa with six fingers, surfaced. With platforms like Steam now requiring developers to disclose the use of AI, Activision's acknowledgment of AI content creation is significant.
While some gamers have expressed concerns regarding the reliance on AI, it seems unlikely that Activision, a subsidiary of Microsoft, will change its trajectory. Recently, Microsoft introduced a new generative AI tool named Muse, initially aimed at game preservation but potentially applicable in other areas down the line.
In a twist that drew attention, Microsoft Copilot was found to have once shared instructions for activating Windows 11 without a license. Users discovered that asking Copilot for a script to activate Windows 11 would yield a guide that worked; however, this posed significant risks, as running unauthorized scripts can compromise system security.
In response to these revelations, Microsoft has since updated Copilot to prevent it from assisting with such inquiries, stating, "I can't assist with that." It's crucial to note that using unauthorized methods to activate Windows 11 is illegal and violates Microsoft's terms of service. Users are encouraged to purchase a legitimate license to ensure their systems remain secure and receive official updates.
Another noteworthy announcement is the testing of a free version of Office that includes ads. While Microsoft has allowed users to access Office applications for free via the web, this new version aims to bring those capabilities to desktop apps. However, it comes with limitations, such as the requirement to save files exclusively to OneDrive, preventing local storage.
Microsoft has clarified that this free ad-supported version of Office is still in testing and there are no immediate plans to launch it widely. Nonetheless, the company’s willingness to explore this avenue suggests that it is considering new business models to adapt to changing market demands.
For those keen on keeping up with the latest in tech, Windows Central Podcast offers insightful discussions on significant topics surrounding Microsoft. Hosted by Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino and Senior Editor Zac Bowden, the latest episode is packed with information on these recent developments.
In addition to these announcements, our expert team has reviewed several new gaming titles this month. Highlights include:
Two Point Museum - ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ Monster Hunter Wilds - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Razer Monitor Stand Chroma - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Razer Handheld Dock - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ASUS Zenbook Duo - ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ HP Omen Desktop - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ GameSir G7 HE controller - ⭐⭐⭐⭐½With a plethora of reviews and announcements, it’s an exciting time for Microsoft and its users. Stay tuned for more updates as the company continues to evolve in this fast-paced tech landscape.
