Microsoft has updated the Windows 11 search box for Windows Insiders on the experimental channel, reducing visual clutter and removing unwanted adverts. 

According to the blog post, the search box now shows the exact source of a result, clarifying whether it originates from an application, setting, file, web result, or a Microsoft Store suggestion. Recent searches are also easier to find within the revised layout.

Promotional content has been entirely removed from the menu. Previously, Microsoft pushed related product promotions to the top of the results, but the update prioritises local matches like applications, settings, and files ahead of web results. If you don't want web or Microsoft Store results at all, you can completely disable them under Settings > Privacy & Security > Search.

File searching is also getting an overhaul to make finding data much faster and more reliable. The system will even find your applications if you make a spelling mistake.

KitGuru says: Cleaning up the Windows 11 Search Box by removing ads and focusing on local files is a long-overdue update. People have been complaining about the ads in Windows since Windows 8, maybe Microsoft is finally listening. 

Valve has released an official Windows 11 driver package for the Steam Machine, allowing users to install Microsoft's operating system on the device. However, the company notes that the experience remains limited and currently lacks dual-boot support, meaning users must completely wipe SteamOS to install Windows.

Valve (via VideoCardz) confirms that concurrent support for both operating systems is still under development. Until this feature arrives, committing to a Windows installation means dedicating the entire storage drive to it. Furthermore, Valve clarifies that Windows setups fall outside its official technical support policy, meaning you are on your own if you hit any software conflicts or installation hiccups.

To get things up and running, the company published drivers covering AMD graphics and chipsets, Qualcomm Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and the onboard SD card reader. There is a catch during the setup process, though. Because the wireless driver isn't active during the initial Windows installation wizard, you will need a wired Ethernet connection to complete the setup before you can update the wireless package.

KitGuru says: While it's good to see Valve providing the tools to turn the Steam Machine into a conventional Windows desktop, the lack of dual-boot support means most users will likely want to stick with SteamOS for the time being.

Valve has officially released the SteamOS 3.8.0 update to the Preview branch, and while the patch notes are extensive, one line has stood out: “Initial support for upcoming Steam Machine hardware”. This confirmation comes at a critical time, following a wave of release date uncertainty due to memory shortages.

By baking support for the OS directly into the OS, Valve is signalling that, despite the global RAM crisis and supply chain hurdles, the Steam Machine is very much alive. The update even includes improved video memory management for discrete GPUs, a feature unnecessary for the Steam Deck but vital for the high-performance RDNA 3/3.5 silicon powering the Steam Machine.

For existing Steam Deck owners, the update also provides “preliminary support for hibernation” for the original LCD model. For years, Deck users have struggled with a sleep mode that drains the battery at times. This new hibernation state aims to mimic the deep-sleep functionality of a Windows laptop, effectively preserving battery life for weeks rather than days. The feature is currently tucked away in BIOS v133 and may not yet appear as a dedicated UI toggle for all testers. The LCD model is also receiving a “Memory Power Down” option and the return of “Bluetooth Wake”, allowing docked users to wake their device using a wireless remote or controller.

Beyond the Deck, SteamOS 3.8.0 also reduces input latency for handheld controllers from a standard 5 to 8ms to a staggering 100 to 500 microseconds. The update also adds native TDP control and speaker audio support to the Asus ROG Xbox Ally series, as well as full controller support for the Lenovo Legion Go 2 and OneXPlayer F1. By updating the desktop mode to KDE Plasma 6.4.3 and switching to Wayland by default, Valve has also enabled HDR and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support for external displays, ensuring that when the Steam Machine does eventually land in the living room, it will be fully compatible with the latest 8K and high-refresh-rate OLED TVs.

KitGuru says: Seeing the Steam Machine mentioned in the patch notes suggests a launch might be around the corner, but if the current memory situation doesn't improve, then Valve may have a hard time meeting demand, or getting the price as low as consumers expected.