Microsoft has mostly kept to itself over the past week when it comes to big announcements. However, as the summer heat rises in the northern hemisphere, news surrounding the Windows and Xbox universes has really started to pick up.
This week, we noticed a few interesting developments: Amazon added a cautionary note on the Surface Laptop 7’s product page, Mojang announced a substantial visual update to everyone’s favorite blocky game, Minecraft, and HP revealed a staggering lineup of 25 new devices.
### Surface Laptop 7 Returns
In an interesting twist, Amazon has now added an alert for those considering buying the Surface Laptop 7. According to the retail giant, this device sees a high return rate.
The notice gently advises potential buyers to read up on the laptop and browse through product reviews before committing to a purchase. The kicker? Amazon hasn’t explained why exactly the Surface Laptop 7 is being returned at such rates. It could be anything from user dissatisfaction to technical glitches.
Whatever the reason, it’s not the best look for Microsoft or its Surface line. The Surface Laptop 7 should be one of the stars in Microsoft’s lineup, and such frequent returns are concerning. Despite its generally positive reviews from tech pundits and high ratings on Amazon, this warning is more than a little alarming.
### Minecraft “Vibrant Visual” Update
Exciting news for Minecraft enthusiasts: a significant visual update is in the works, titled “Vibrant Visuals,” showcased during last week’s Minecraft Live event.
If you’re a fan of Minecraft’s classic charm, don’t worry—the gameplay and systems remain untouched. This update is like giving the game a new, shiny outer layer while keeping its beloved blocky aesthetic intact.
This update tweaks textures, adds new directional lighting, and introduces more lifelike fog and other visual elements. Big improvements are expected in lighting, shadows, and reflections.
Look forward to seeing Vibrant Visuals roll out to Minecraft: Bedrock Edition soon, with the Java Edition not far behind. Although, given past delays in visual updates, some skepticism isn’t unwarranted.
### Leaked Xbox/Steam Integration
Here’s a scoop for Xbox users: Microsoft seems to be dialing up efforts to enhance the Xbox app on Windows, especially for smaller screens. Previously, we’ve seen the addition of the Xbox Game Bar’s Compact Mode and a more gaming-friendly on-screen keyboard.
Recently, whispers have emerged about a Steam integration feature for the Xbox app’s game library. A teaser for this feature surfaced briefly on a Microsoft blog before it was pulled down.
Details are scarce since that post vanished, yet it hints at some potentially major changes to the Xbox app library on PC. Whether this pans out as a reality or mere wishful thinking remains to be seen.
### HP Announces Dozens of PCs
HP came out strong at its Amplify conference, introducing a whopping 25 new PCs. This lineup includes everything from laptops to All-in-One desktops, mini PCs, and even gaming laptops.
Instead of listing all of them, I recommend checking out Rebecca Spear’s roundup of the best from HP’s Amplify event. She highlights exciting models like the EliteStudio 8 AiO G1i and the OmniBook 7 Aero 13, among others.
Out of the bunch, the EliteStudio 8 AiO G1i has gathered quite the buzz. But, of course, what appeals to you will depend on personal taste and PC needs. Our Editor-in-Chief, Daniel Rubino, also put the EliteStudio through its paces and mentioned he wished he had something like this back in college.
### Windows Central Podcast
Every week, tune in as Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden delve into the hottest tech topics on the Windows Central Podcast. Not only do they discuss current news, but they also offer unique insights and share firsthand experiences with the latest gadgets.
### Reviews
Our team is dedicated to giving you a closer look at the latest tech, whether it’s gadgets, PCs, or games. This week, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ gaming handheld scored top marks from our experts, securing a 4.5 out of 5 for its impressive performance, stellar screen, Hall Effect joysticks, and speakers.
### Deals of the Week
Who doesn’t love a good bargain? We’ve rounded up this week’s best deals to help you save on all things tech—from games and consoles to accessories and more.
