Microsoft News: Windows App Gone, Xbox & More – Week in Review

by priyanka.patel tech editor

SEATTLE, August 17, 2025 – Microsoft is streamlining its Windows experience once again, this time by retiring another pre-installed request. The company’s ongoing effort to declutter the operating system comes alongside adjustments to OneDrive storage plans and the release of new Windows 11 builds, signaling a busy week for Redmond. What changes are Microsoft making to onedrive and Windows 11 this week?

Windows App Sunset and onedrive Updates

Microsoft continues to refine its software offerings with app removals and storage plan adjustments.

Did you know? Microsoft has been actively removing stock apps from Windows to reduce bloat and improve performance.

The latest application to be removed is 3D Builder, a pre-installed app that allowed users to view, modify, and print 3D models. Microsoft confirmed the app’s removal,stating it will no longer be included in new Windows installations.Existing users will still have access to the application, but it won’t receive further updates.

Alongside the app removal, Microsoft announced changes to OneDrive storage plans. The company is discontinuing the 100GB and 200GB standalone OneDrive plans on November 1, 2025. Current subscribers to these plans will be encouraged to upgrade to Microsoft 365 Personal or family subscriptions, which offer 1TB or 6TB of storage, respectively, along with access to other Microsoft applications. Why is Microsoft making these changes? the company aims to simplify its offerings and incentivize users to adopt the more thorough Microsoft 365 suite. Who is affected? Users currently subscribed to the 100GB and 200GB standalone OneDrive plans will need to transition to Microsoft 365. What is changing? The 100GB and 200GB standalone plans are being discontinued. How did it end? Microsoft announced the discontinuation date as November 1, 2025, encouraging upgrades to Microsoft 365.

New Windows 11 Builds for Insiders

Microsoft is actively testing new features and improvements for Windows 11 through its Insider program. This week saw the release of several new builds for the Dev and Beta Channels.

Pro tip Joining the Windows Insider Program allows you to test new features before public release, but be aware that these builds may contain bugs.

The latest builds include several under-the-hood improvements and bug fixes. While no major new features were highlighted in these releases, Microsoft emphasized its commitment to stability and performance enhancements.Insiders can expect to see further refinements and new features in upcoming builds as the company prepares for the next major Windows 11 update.Why is Microsoft releasing these builds? To gather feedback and improve the stability and performance of Windows 11. Who is involved? Members of the Windows Insider Program. what is happening? Microsoft is releasing new builds with bug fixes and performance enhancements. How did it end? The release of these builds is an ongoing process, with further refinements expected in future updates.

AMD Teases New Xbox Hardware

AMD, a key partner for both Microsoft’s Xbox and PC platforms, has teased upcoming hardware advancements. The company showcased early prototypes of its next-generation processors and graphics cards, hinting at meaningful performance gains for future gaming experiences.

Quick Fact

Microsoft 365 personal includes 1TB of OneDrive storage and access to premium Office apps.

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