ComputingSoftware

Microsoft’s October Windows 11 Update Triggers Recovery Environment Navigation Bug

A recent Windows 11 security update has rendered USB keyboards and mice unusable within the Windows Recovery Environment, according to Microsoft’s known issues page. The company indicates affected users can utilize PS/2 peripherals as a temporary solution while a permanent fix is developed. The glitch impacts Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2 versions alongside Windows Server 2025.

Windows Recovery Environment Impeded by Latest Security Update

Microsoft’s October security update for Windows 11 has introduced a significant navigation issue within the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), according to reports from the company’s known issues page. The problematic update, identified as KB5066835, reportedly disables functionality for USB input devices when users attempt to access recovery options, effectively preventing navigation through troubleshooting menus.

EconomyEnergy

Residential Power Bills Outpace Business Rates Amid Policy Shifts, Studies Find

Household electricity costs have risen significantly faster than commercial and industrial rates over the past five years, according to new research. Analysts point to state energy policies and distributed solar adoption as key factors behind the diverging price trends.

Residential Electricity Costs Surge Ahead of Business Rates

Residential electricity prices have increased more rapidly than commercial and industrial rates over the past five years, according to reports from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Nationwide average residential prices jumped 27% to 16.5 cents/kWh between 2019 and 2024, while commercial and industrial prices both increased 19% to 12.8 cents/kWh and 8.1 cents/kWh respectively, the laboratory’s analysis found.

SoftwareTechnology

Meta Discontinues Desktop Messenger Applications for Windows and macOS Platforms

Meta Platforms is sunsetting its dedicated Messenger applications for desktop operating systems, with complete removal scheduled for December. The move signals a broader shift toward web-based messaging solutions across Meta’s product ecosystem, according to industry reports.

Desktop Messenger Applications Being Phased Out

Meta Platforms is discontinuing its standalone Messenger applications for desktop computers running Windows and macOS, according to reports from multiple technology news sources. Both applications have already been removed from their respective app stores, and existing users are receiving notifications about the impending complete shutdown scheduled for December.

BusinessStartups

Automattic Chief Labels Tumblr Acquisition as Major Setback Amid Integration Challenges

Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg has openly described the Tumblr acquisition as his most significant misstep to date. Despite ongoing efforts to migrate the platform to WordPress infrastructure, financial and technical obstacles have stalled progress, leaving Tumblr reliant on other company revenues.

Tumblr Acquisition Deemed Automattic’s Biggest Failure

During a recent Town Hall session at WordCamp Canada 2025, Matt Mullenweg, CEO of Automattic, candidly addressed the company’s acquisition of Tumblr as his “biggest failure or missed opportunity.” According to reports, Mullenweg emphasized that while the platform hasn’t met expectations, Automattic hasn’t abandoned efforts to revitalize it.

ResearchTechnology

Scientists Achieve Breakthrough in Microscale Turbulence Using Supercritical Fluids

Researchers have successfully created sustained turbulent flow in microscopic channels using supercritical fluids, a phenomenon previously thought impossible at such small scales. The breakthrough, dubbed “Turbulence-On-a-Chip,” could revolutionize microfluidic applications from chemical processing to medical diagnostics. According to reports, the discovery challenges conventional understanding of fluid dynamics in confined spaces.

Revolutionizing Microfluidics with Supercritical Turbulence

Scientists have reportedly achieved what was once considered nearly impossible: creating and sustaining turbulent flow within microscopic channels. According to research published in Scientific Reports, the breakthrough was accomplished using supercritical fluids under high-pressure conditions, opening new possibilities for microfluidic applications ranging from chemical processing to biomedical diagnostics.

GamingHardware

Xbox Executives Address ROG Ally X Pricing Strategy and Market Reception

Microsoft’s Xbox division has responded to questions about the ROG Ally X’s premium pricing, noting that hardware partner Asus determined the final cost. Despite the $1,000 price tag, early sales reportedly exceeded expectations, with devices selling out rapidly across multiple retailers.

Xbox Leadership Clarifies Pricing Strategy for Premium Handheld

Xbox executives have addressed consumer questions surrounding the $1,000 price point of the recently released ROG Ally X handheld gaming device, according to reports. In statements to Variety, Xbox President Sarah Bond indicated that hardware manufacturer Asus ultimately determined the pricing structure based on their market analysis and component costs.

Gaming

Jurassic World Evolution 3 Launch Schedule and Gameplay Details Confirmed

The highly anticipated dinosaur park simulator Jurassic World Evolution 3 has confirmed its worldwide launch schedule. Players can begin building their prehistoric attractions starting October 21 across PC and console platforms.

Global Release Schedule Confirmed

Frontier Developments’ highly anticipated park management sequel Jurassic World Evolution 3 has officially confirmed its global launch timing, according to reports from gaming publications. Sources indicate the game will become available on Tuesday, October 21 at 7 AM Pacific Time, which converts to 10 AM Eastern Time for North American players and midnight in Sydney, Australia.