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HP already has a reputation for breaking printers with updates. HP, along with other printer brands, is infamous for issuing firmware updates that brick already-purchased printers that have tried to use third-party ink. In a new form of frustration, HP is now being accused of issuing a firmware update that broke customers’ laser printers—even though the devices are loaded with HP-brand toner. The firmware update in question is version 20250209, which HP issued on March 4 for its LaserJet MFP M232-M237 models. Per HP, the update includes “security updates,” a “regulatory requirement update,” “general improvements and bug fixes,” and fixes for IPP Everywhere. Looking back to older updates’ fixes and changes, which the new update includes, doesn’t reveal anything out of the ordinary. The older updates mention things like “fixed print quality to ensure borders are not cropped for certain document types,” and “improved firmware update and cartridge rejection experiences.” But there’s no mention of changes to how the printers use or read toner. However, users have been reporting sudden problems using HP-brand toner in their M232–M237 series printers since their devices updated to 20250209. Users on HP’s support forum say they see Error Code 11 and the hardware’s toner light flashing when trying to print. Some said they’ve cleaned the contacts and reinstalled their toner but still can't print. “Insanely frustrating because it's my small business printer and just stopped working out of nowhere[,] and I even replaced the tone[r,] which was a $60 expense,” a forum user wrote on March 8. When reached for comment, an HP spokesperson said: HP users have been burned by printer updates before HP hasn't clarified how widespread the reported problems are. But this isn't the first time that HP broke its customers’ printers with an update. In May 2023, for example, a firmware update caused several HP OfficeJet brand printers to stop printing and show a blue screen for weeks. With such bad experiences with printer updates and HP’s controversial stance on purposely breaking HP printer functionality when using non-HP ink, some have minimal patience for malfunctioning HP printers. As one forum commenter wrote: Some commenters are already using current exasperation to push HP's customers to move to rival printer-maker Brother. "I went out and got a similar Brother printer for $144 at Walmart," one of HP’s forum users wrote. "Not ideal - but no more auto firmware updates - plus the new printer has [its] own 250 sheet paper tray and manual sheet feeder[,] which is nice. Just a little bigger than the HP. It's a little slower first page out - but I'm not in any particular hurry." Brother was recently accused via viral video of updating its laser printers so they wouldn't print or would print worse when using non-Brother toner. But Brother denied this is the case to Ars. Source Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. News posts... 2023: 5,800+ | 2024: 5,700+ | 2025 (till end of February): 874 RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend

Microsoft has fully released a big new firmware update for its Copilot+ PCs, the Surface Pro 11 and the Surface Laptop 7. The latest patch focuses on resolving various bugs and minor issues, such as non-working Wake on LAN, display flashing on OLED models, errors when waking up or resuming from hibernation, and more. Here are the official changelogs: Surface Pro 11 Surface Laptop 7 Resolves an issue because of which the Wake On LAN (WOL) feature does not function correctly when using Surface Dock 2 or Surface Thunderbolt™ 4 Dock via USB-C while the device is in the Hibernate or Shutdown state. Addresses an issue where the Network BitLocker unlock feature fails when using a Surface Thunderbolt™ 4 Dock during a cold boot. Fixes an issue that was preventing the devices to successfully boot from the network using PXE when connected to a Surface Thunderbolt™ 4 Dock and set as the first boot option in the UEFI. Resolves the issue of screen flashing when the OLED display is exposed to direct sunlight. Addresses an issue where the OLED screen fails to turn on after waking up from sleep mode. Enhances system stability by preventing the device from encountering multiple errors and crashing. Improves sleep efficiency by resolving the issue where the Wi-Fi system consumed power during sleep mode. Resolves an issue where the system encounters an error when resuming from hibernate with an external monitor connected. Resolves an issue because of which the Wake On LAN (WOL) feature does not function correctly when using Surface Dock 2 or Surface Thunderbolt™ 4 Dock via USB-C while the device is in the Hibernate or Shutdown state. Addresses an issue where the Network BitLocker unlock feature fails when using a Surface Thunderbolt™ 4 Dock during a cold boot. Fixes the issue causing occasional screen flickering/flashing. Fixes an issue that was preventing the devices to successfully boot from the network using PXE when connected to a Surface Thunderbolt™ 4 Dock and set as the first boot option in the UEFI. Enhances system stability by preventing the device from encountering multiple errors and crashing. Improves sleep efficiency by resolving the issue where the Wi-Fi system consumed power during sleep mode. Resolves an issue where the system encounters an error when resuming from hibernate with an external monitor connected. You can download the latest Surface firmware updates from Windows Update. Alternatively, offline packages are available on the official Surface Support website here (Surface Pro 11) and here (Surface Laptop 7). In case you missed it, a new report recently emerged detailing Microsoft's plans for 2025. The company allegedly plans more Copilot+ PCs with ARM and Intel processors, such as a refreshed Surface Laptop Studio and a new 11-inch Surface with a Snapdragon chip. Source Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of November): 5,298 news posts RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend

Downgrading or customer support are your options if you caught the bad one. A recent firmware pushed to QNAP network attached storage (NAS) devices left a number of owners unable to access their storage systems. The company has pulled back the firmware and issued a fixed version, but the company's response has left some users feeling less confident in the boxes into which they put all their digital stuff. As seen on a QNAP community thread, and as announced by QNAP itself, the QNAP operating system, QTS, received update 5.2.2.2950, build 20241114, at some point around November 19. After QNAP "received feedbacks from some users reporting issues with device functionality after installation," the firm says it withdrew it, "conducted a comprehensive investigation," and re-released a fixed version "within 24 hours." The community thread sees many more users of different systems having problems than the shortlist ("limited models of TS-x53D series and TS-x51 series") released by QNAP. Issues reported included owners being rejected as an authorized user, devices reporting issues with booting, and claims of Python not being installed to run some apps and services. QNAP says affected users can either downgrade their devices (presumably to then upgrade once more to the fixed update) or contact support for help. Response from QNAP support, as told by users on forums and social media, has not measured up to the nature of losing access to an entire backup system. Ars has reached out to QNAP for comment and will update this post with response. QNAP's firmware push was intended, in part, to cover recent security vulnerabilities in their devices. QNAP devices are a rich and frequent target of criminal hackers. A severe vulnerability from February 2023 allowed for remote SQL injections and potential administrative control of a device, affecting nearly 30,000 devices seen in network scans. It was a follow-on from attacks by DeadBolt, a ransomware gang that infected thousands of QNAP devices and cornered QNAP into automatically pushing emergency updates, even to customers with automatic updates turned off. Security researchers at WatchTowr said they found 15 vulnerabilities in QNAP's operating systems and cloud services and informed the company of them. After QNAP failed to patch some of those vulnerabilities far beyond the typical 90-day window (and then some), WatchTowr went public with its findings, dubbed "QNAPping at the Wheel." QNAP devices, like any network-attached storage, should ideally only be connected to the Internet through a VPN or other security measures. Source Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of October): 4,832 news posts RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend

Microsoft has released new firmware updates for the Surface Laptop 5 and the Surface Laptop 6. The update delivers security patches, fixes for display flickering, audio issues, and problems with certain applications, such as Citrix Workspace, Here is the changelog for the Surface Laptop 6: Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Intel Corporation - Extension - 32.0.101.5972 Intel(R) Arc(TM) Graphics - Extensions Intel Corporation - Display - 32.0.101.5972 Intel(R) Arc(TM) Graphics - Display adapters Surface - Extension - 6.200.6.0 Microsoft Devices Telemetry Service - Extensions Here is the changelog for the Surface Laptop 5: Here are the new drivers for the Surface Laptop 5: Windows Update Name Device Manager Name Realtek - SoftwareComponent -12.1.6000.1076 Realtek - SoftwareComponent -12.1.6000.1076 Realtek - AudioProcessingObject - 13.1.6000.1076 Realtek Audio Effects Component - Audio Processing Objects (APOs) Realtek Semiconductor Corp. - MEDIA - 6.0.9681.3 Realtek High Definition Audio(SST) - Sound, video and game controllers Realtek Semiconductor Corp. - Extension - 6.1.0.24 Surface High Definition Audio - Extension Intel(R) Corporation - System - 10.29.0.9947 Intel Smart Sound Technology BUS - System devices Intel(R) Corporation - System - 10.29.0.9947 Intel(R) Smart Sound Technology (Intel(R) SST) OED - System devices Intel(R) Corporation - MEDIA - 10.29.0.9947 Intel Smart Sound Technology for USB Audio - Sound, video and game controllers Intel Smart Sound Technology for USB Audio - Sound, video and game controllers Intel Smart Sound Technology for Bluetooth Audio - Sound, video and game controllers Surface - Extension - 6.200.6.0 Microsoft Devices Telemetry Service - Extensions The latest firmware for the Surface Laptop 5 and 6 is available on all configurations with Windows 10 version 22H2 or Windows 11 22H2 and newer. You can download it from Windows Update or the official Surface Support website (here for the Surface Laptop 5 and here for the Surface Laptop 6). Source Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of October): 4,832 news posts RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend

Microsoft has released a new firmware update for the Surface Go 4. It contains some important fixes for bugs causing display flickering, problems with Teams' mute/unmute icon, security vulnerabilities, and more. Also, the update will make your Wi-Fi connections better by improving response time. Here is the official changelog: Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Intel(R) Corporation - System - 10.29.0.9947 Intel Smart Sound Technology BUS - System devices Intel(R) Corporation - MEDIA - 10.29.0.9947 Intel Smart Sound Technology for Bluetooth Audio - Sound, video, and game controllers Intel(R) Corporation - System - 10.29.0.9947 Intel(R) Smart Sound Technology (Intel (R) SST) OED - System devices Intel(R) Corporation - MEDIA - 10.29.0.9947 Intel Smart Sound Technology for USB Audio - Sound, video and game controllers Surface - Extension - 6.16.8.0 Surface Dock 2 Firmware Update - Extensions Intel - net - 23.60.0.10 Intel(R) Wi-Fi 6 AX201 160MHz - Network adapters Intel Corporation - Bluetooth - 23.60.0.1 Intel(R) Wireless Bluetooth(R) - Bluetooth Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Go 4 Supported Windows Versions Windows 10 version 22H2 Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Update Size 677 MB (manual installation only) Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps Known Issues No known issues in this update Like other modern Surface devices, the Surface Go 4 has a six-year-long lifecycle, which will end on September 21, 2029. Source Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of October): 4,832 news posts RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend

If you have a Surface Laptop 5 and you notice that the computer is randomly shutting down when connected to power, the latest firmware will fix the problem for you. Microsoft has issued new firmware to address shutdown problems, improve battery-related features, and resolve a "significant security vulnerability." Here is the official changelog: Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Surface - Firmware - 15.204.139.0 Surface System Aggregator - Firmware Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations 13-inch Surface Laptop 5 15-inch Surface Laptop 5 Supported Windows Versions Windows 10 version 22H2 and newer Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer Update Size 595 MB (manual installation only) Additional Steps The update does not require additional steps before or after installation Known Issues The update does not contain any known issues You can update your Surface Laptop 5 by heading to Settings > Windows Update. Also, Microsoft provides offline update packages with all the firmware updates released to date. You can get one for the Surface Laptop 5 with Windows 10 or Windows 11 from the official Surface Support website. The Surface Laptop 5, launched on October 25, 2022, has a standard six-year lifecycle, with its end of support scheduled for October 25, 2028. Source Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of October): 4,832 news posts RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend

Microsoft has released a firmware update for the Surface Pro 9 with Intel processors. As usual, Surface firmware updates deliver important hardware-related fixes and improvements. With the latest update, Surface Pro 9 owners received patches for a problem with their devices unexpectedly shutting down due to inaccurate battery life estimation. Nothing ruins a day more than watching your computer abruptly die with a 30% battery level. Here is the official changelog: Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Surface - Firmware - 6.301.139.0 Surface System Aggregator - Firmware Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro 9 with Intel processors Supported Windows Versions Windows 10 version 22H2 Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer Update Size 742 MB (manual installation only) Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps to install. Known Issues No known issues in this update. Your Surface Pro 9 will download available updates automatically, but you can speed things up by heading to Settings > Windows Update and clicking the "Check for updates" button. Alternatively, go to the official Surface support website and download a manual installation package. As usual, remember to back up important data before updating firmware since Microsoft does not allow undoing Surface firmware updates. Better safe than sorry. All Surface Pro 9 configurations have a six-year lifecycle, which started on October 25, 2022, and will end on October 25, 2028. Source Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of September): 4,292 news posts RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend

It recently became known that Windows 11 version 24H2, which was launched earlier this month, is not going along with certain SSDs from Western Digital and SanDisk, causing the updated PCs to crash into blue screens of death. Western Digital now has a permanent solution in the form of a firmware update that eliminates the need to use registry tweak workarounds. According to a support article on the official SanDisk website, the problem is caused by issues with the Host Memory Buffer (HMB) on some SSDs from Western Digital and SanDisk. Affected products include the following: Drive Name Model Number Firmware Version WD_BLACK SN770 NVMe SSD 2TB WDBBDL0020BNC, WDS200T3X0E 731130WD WD_BLACK SN770M NVMe SSD 2TB WDBDNH0020BBK, WDS200T3X0G 731130WD WD Blue SN580 NVMe SSD 2TB WDBWMY0020BBL, WDS200T3B0E 281050WD WD Blue SN5000 NVMe SSD 2TB WDBS3F0020BNC, WDS200T4B0E 291020WD SanDisk Extreme M.2 NVMe SSD 2TB SDSSDX3N-2T00 731130WD If you have a drive affected by the problem, Western Digital recommends updating its firmware before attempting to install Windows 11 version 24H2. The company also acknowledged that Microsoft may prevent PCs with the SSDs listed above from accessing the update without the latest firmware. To update the firmware on your SSD, go to this page and download the Western Digital Dashboard application, which, besides updating firmware, lets you monitor your drive's health, temperature, speeds, and other important information (it is only available on Windows; macOS and Linux are not supported). After the launch, the app will notify you that there is a pending firmware update for the installed drive. Once everything is done, you can update to Windows 11 version 24H2 using this guide (or this registry tweak). If your system is not officially supported, check out this guide. Keep in mind that your computer might be affected by other known issues and bugs, so be sure to check them out here before proceeding. Source RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of September): 4,292 news posts

Following the release of a major firmware update for the Surface Pro X lineup, Microsoft released a similar update for the Surface Pro 9 5G. It features many fixes for various keyboard issues, a non-working Caps Lock LED, and other bugs. The update also improves wake-up performance and overall system security. Here is the complete changelog: Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Surface - Firmware - 18.21.235.0 Surface UEFI - Firmware 3.98.5.0 Surface Hid Mini Driver - Human Interface Devices 71.62.15.0 Surface Integration - System devices 2.131.15.0 Surface Type Cover v7 Firmware Update - Extensions Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro 9 5G Supported Windows Versions Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Update Size 385 MB (manual installation only) The Surface Pro 9 5G and its Intel-based sibling have a six-year support lifecycle. Microsoft plans to stop releasing updates for these devices on October 25, 2028. Source RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of September): 4,292 news posts

Microsoft has prepared and released a big firmware update for the SQ2-based Surface Pro X. The latest release addresses multiple issues, such as a security vulnerability in the fingerprint authentication, bugs with the keyboard and trackpad, broken Caps Lock LED light, problems with waking the device up from sleep mode, and more. Here is the complete changelog: Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager 2.202.139.0 Surface System Aggregator - Firmware 2.131.15.0 Surface Type Cover v7 Firmware Update - Extensions Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro X SQ2 Supported Windows Versions Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer Known Issues There is an issue initiating the Eye Contact feature on the February 28, 2022, update on devices that have taken the Windows 11 update. To initiate Eye Contact, you must toggle the feature within Settings. You will need to do this each time the Camera is used. Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Camera > Surface Camera Front or Surface Camera Rear. Toggle the Eye Contact feature. Microsoft is actively working to resolve the issue in a future update. You can install the latest firmware for your Surface Pro X SQ2 in Settings > Windows Update. The device will continue receiving firmware until August 10, 2025. Source RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of September): 4,292 news posts

Microsoft Surface Duo 2 has received its final software update, marking the end of Microsoft's brief return to the smartphone market. The Surface Duo 2 was launched in October 2021, following a disastrous debut of the Surface Duo, which was announced in September 2019, and launched a year later in October 2020. The final update for Microsoft Surface Duo 2 update weighs approximately 55MB in size, with the changelog stating, "This update improves the performance and stability of your Surface Duo 2." While other foldables from companies like Samsung, OPPO, OnePlus, etc., have fared extremely well in the market, Microsoft's take on a book-style smartphone wasn't well-received by tech enthusiasts. The Surface Duo 2 didn't feature an external display and has dual-screen inner displays, with a huge gap in between, ruining the entire experience. image via Reddit Microsoft already ended the software update support for the original Surface Duo smartphone last year, and now it was time for the Surface Duo 2. According to Windows Central, the worst part about the Surface Duo 2 was that it only received a single Android OS update, i.e., from Android 11 to Android 12 (specifically Android 12L, which brought big optimizations). The Android 12L update was rolled out in October 2022, and since then the Surface Duo 2 hasn't received a single major update in the later two years of its existence. On the official Microsoft website, the company lists the life cycle for the Surface Duo 2 as ending on October 21. Unless a miracle is waiting or Microsoft has some wild plans, this latest update is the last update for the Surface Duo 2. This was the second chance Microsoft had in the smartphone market after its Lumia smartphone series. There is no clarity on what the future holds for Microsoft in the smartphone business. Source RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of September): 4,292 news posts

Microsoft's biggest Surface devices, the Surface Studio 2+ and its predecessor, the Surface Studio 2, received a new firmware update. It is now available for download with a fix for Wi-Fi dropouts in certain scenarios and security patches. Here is the changelog for the Surface Studio 2+: Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Surface - Firmware - 21.101.143.0 Surface UEFI - Firmware Surface - Firmware - 15.0.2573.1 Surface ME - Firmware Intel - Software Component - 1.71.99.0 Intel(R) iCLS Client - Software components Intel - System - 2406.5.5.0 Intel(R) Management Engine Interface #1 - System devices And here is what is new for the Surface Studio 2: Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager NVIDIA - Display - 31.0.15.3884 NVIDIA GeForce GTX 10XX - Display adapters Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Studio 2+ Surface Studio 2 Supported Windows Versions Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer Windows 10 version 22H2 Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer Update Size 1.3 GB 894 MB Known Issues The update does not contain any known bugs. Microsoft rolls out Surface firmware updates via Windows Update. To get one for your Surface, head to Settings > Windows Update. Alternatively, check out offline packages here (Surface Studio 2+) and here (Surface Studio 2). The Surface Studio 2+ is supported until October 2, 2028. As for the Surface Studio 2, this is the latest update for the computer. This month, Microsoft ended its support, which means it will no longer receive firmware updates and fixes. Source RIP Matrix | Farewell my friend Hope you enjoyed this news post. Thank you for appreciating my time and effort posting news every day for many years. 2023: Over 5,800 news posts | 2024 (till end of September): 4,292 news posts

Microsoft has released the January 2024 firmware update for the original Surface Laptop Studio released in 2021. The update features multiple improvements for graphics, inking with the Surface Pen stylus, external displays over USB-C, and Surface Dock 3 compatibility. It also fixes bugs when working with a second monitor. What is new in the January 2024 firmware update for the Surface Laptop Studio Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Intel Corporation - Display - 31.0.101.4502 Intel(R) Iris(R) Xe Graphics - Display adapters Intel Corporation - Extension - 31.0.101.4502 Intel(R) Iris(R) Xe Graphics - Extension Surface - Firmware - 2.26.7.0 Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt(TM) 4 Dock Firmware Update - Firmware Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Laptop Studio (first generation) Supported Windows Versions Windows 11 version 21H2 and newer Windows 10 version 21H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Update Size 1.3GB (manual installation only) Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps before or after installation Known Issues The update does not contain any known issues or bugs Microsoft is rolling out Surface firmware updates via Windows Update. To get the latest release, go to Settings > Windows Update and click "Check for updates." Keep in mind that you cannot uninstall firmware updates, so make sure to back up important data before proceeding. The original Surface Laptop Studio has a lifespan of six years. Microsoft plans to stop issuing firmware and driver updates on October 5, 2027. The company recently ended support for the fifth-generation Surface Pro and its LTE variant. Source

If you have a Surface Laptop 5, you may want to download the latest firmware update. The February 2024 release is now available with a few important fixes. It patches intermittent boot issues and addresses battery error messages in the Surface app. Besides, the new firmware improves stability when using the Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock. What is new in the February 2024 firmware update for the Surface Laptop 5? Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Surface - Firmware - 15.104.139.0 Surface System Aggregator - Firmware Surface - Firmware - 2.26.7.0 Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt(TM) 4 Dock Firmware Update - Firmware Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Laptop 5 Supported Windows Versions Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer Windows 10 version 21H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Update Size 592MB (manual installation only) Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps before or after installation Known Issues The update does not contain any known issues Keep in mind that Microsoft does not allow uninstalling Surface firmware updates, so each install is a one-way ticket. Even though the update does not contain any known issues, back up important information before getting to the latest firmware on your Surface computer. There were times when Microsoft pushed a buggy firmware update, so it is better to be safe than sorry. Like other recently released Surface computers, the Surface Pro 5 has a six-year lifecycle. Its end of support is scheduled for October 25, 2028. Source

The March 2024 firmware update is now available for the Surface Pro 9 5G with the Microsoft SQ3 processor. It does not contain any new features, but it fixes bugs causing blue screens of death. Here are the details. What is new in the March 2024 Surface Pro 9 5G firmware update? Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Device Manager Driver Version Surface Serial Hub Driver - System devices 9.166.8.0 Surface UEFI - Firmware 18.7.235.0 Qualcomm Secure Processor Device - System devices 1.0.3851.4800 Qualcomm(R) System Manager Power Engine Plug-in Device - System devices 1.0.3851.4800 Qualcomm(R) System Manager Device - System devices 1.0.3851.4800 Qualcomm(R) System Manager Qcom Device - Extensions 1.0.3875.7400 Qualcomm(R) System Manager GPIO Device - System devices 1.0.3820.3000 Qualcomm(R) Audio RPC Daemon Device - System devices 1.0.3875.7400 Qualcomm(R) FastRPC Device - System devices 1.0.3875.7400 Surface Pen BLE LC Adaptation Driver - Human Interface Devices 3.54.12.0 Surface Touch Pen Processor - Extensions 19.14.139.0 Qualcomm(R) Aqstic(TM) Audio DSP and Calibration Manager - System devices 1.0.3902.9400 Qualcomm(R) Adreno(TM) 8cx Gen 3 - Display adapters 30.0.3902.9400 Qualcomm(R) Bluetooth Radio Driver - Bluetooth 1.0.3902.9400 Qualcomm(R) Bluetooth UART Transport Driver - Bluetooth 1.0.3902.9400 Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro 9 5G with the Microsoft SQ3 chip Supported Windows Versions Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps before or after installation Known Issues The update does not contain any known issues Microsoft will soon expand its lineup of ARM-powered Surface computers. The company announced a May 20 event where it plans to unveil new consumer versions of the Surface Laptop 6 and the Surface Pro 10. Both devices are expected to feature quite a lot of changes, such as an OLED display, a new design, and more. Source

Microsoft recently released a new firmware update for the Intel-based Surface Pro 9 to improve the device's audio system. However, Microsoft is not done with updating its current flagship tablet with new firmware. Shortly after the previous update, the company pushed another one to fix the choppy cursor and slow animations across the operating system. The Surface Pro 9 has a beautiful 120Hz display, so stuttery animations and the buggy cursor can feel extra annoying. Fortunately, the issue seems to be hiding in the Intel graphics driver, so getting to the latest version from Windows Update should fix the problem in no time. Here is the changelog: Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Intel Corporation - Extension - 30.0.101.3118 Intel Iris Xe Graphics - Extensions Intel Corporation - Display - 30.0.101.3118 Intel Iris Xe Graphics - Display adapters You can download the latest firmware update for the Surface Pro 9 with Intel processors in Settings > Windows Update. If you want to install it manually, go to the official support website and download the latest package (744MB). It is compatible with Windows 10 version 21H2 and Windows 11 version 22H2 or newer releases. Like other Surface computers released after January 1, 2021, the Surface Pro 9 has a six-year lifecycle. Therefore, expect Microsoft to receive plenty of other firmware updates and fixes before the device reaches its end of life on October 25, 2028. You can check out other Surface computers that have been updated with new firmware in April 2024 using this link. Source

Microsoft has released the April 2024 firmware update for the Surface Pro 8 and Intel-based configurations of the Surface Pro 9. Both releases are focused on improving devices' audio systems and fixing potential issues with audio recording or playback. What is new in the April 2024 firmware update for the Surface Pro 8 and 9 (Intel)? Here is the list of new drivers for the Surface Pro 9 (Intel): Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Dolby - Audio Processing Object - 3.30508.581.0 Dolby APO SWC Device - Software components Dolby - Extension - 8.605.313.22 Realtek High Definition Audio(SST) - Extensions Realtek Semiconductor Corp. - MEDIA - 6.0.9561.5 Realtek High-Definition Audio (SST) - Sound, video and game controllers And here are the new drivers for the Surface Pro 8: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Realtek Semiconductor Corp. - MEDIA - 6.0.9561.5 Realtek High-Definition Audio (SST) - Sound, video and game controllers Here is extra information about the updates: Surface Pro 8 Surface Pro 9 Supported Configurations Surface Pro 8 Surface Pro 9 with Intel processors Supported Windows versions Windows 10 version 21H2 and newer Windows 11 version 21H2 and newer Windows 10 version 21H2 and newer Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Update size 741MB (manual installation only) 671MB (manual installation only) Additional steps The update does not require additional steps before or after installation Known issues The update does not contain any known issues The Surface Pro 8 will be supported until October 5, 2027, and the Surface Pro 9 (both Intel and ARM versions) will reach its end of life on October 25, 2028. Source

More Surface devices are getting the April 2024 firmware update. After pushing day-one updates for the Surface Laptop 6 for Business and the Surface Pro 10 for Business, Microsoft released new firmware for the Intel-based Surface Laptop 4. Now, owners of the Surface Pro X Wi-Fi and the second-generation Surface Studio can download the latest fixes and improvements. What is new in the April 2024 firmware update for the Surface Pro X? Here is the list of new drivers: Driver Version Windows Device Manager 10.703.140.0 Surface UEFI - Firmware 1.0.2020.0 Qualcomm(R) Bluetooth Radio Driver - Bluetooth 1.0.2020.0 Qualcomm(R) Bluetooth UART Transport Driver - Bluetooth Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro X Wi-Fi Supported Windows Versions Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps before or after installation Known Issues The update does not contain any known issues Surface Pro X Wi-Fi will continue receiving firmware updates for over three more years. Microsoft plans to end its support on October 5, 2027. What is new in the April 2024 firmware update for the Surface Studio 2? Note that the update is not applicable to the Surface Studio 2+. Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Intel - System - 2334.5.1.0 Intel(R) Management Engine Interface #1 - System devices Intel - Software Component - 1.70.101.0 Intel - Software Component - 1.70.101.0 Surface - Firmware - 11.8.95.4551 Surface ME - Firmware Surface - Firmware - 536.902.768.0 Surface UEFI - Firmware Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Studio 2 Supported Windows Versions Windows 10 version 21H2 and newer Windows 11 version 21H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Update Size 630MB (manual installation only) Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps before or after installation Known Issues The update does not contain any known issues Surface Studio 2 is reaching its end of life later this year. According to the official documentation, the computer will be out of support by October 2, 2024. Source

The recently released Surface Pro 10 for Business and Surface Laptop 6 for Business received their first firmware updates with camera, battery, network, display, audio, and power management improvements. What is new in the April 2024 firmware update for Surface Pro 10 for Business? Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro 10 for Business Supported Windows Versions Windows 10 version 22H2 and newer Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Update Size 734MB (manual installation only) Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps before or after installation Known Issues The update does not contain any known issues What is new in the April 2024 firmware update for Surface Laptop 6 for Business? Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Laptop 6 for Business Supported Windows Versions Windows 10 version 22H2 and newer Windows 11 version 23H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Update Size 682MB (manual installation only) Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps before or after installation Known Issues The update does not contain any known issues The Surface Pro 10 for Business and the Surface Laptop 6 for Business have six-year lifecycles. Microsoft will be releasing firmware updates for those computers until April 2030. Source

The May 2024 firmware update is now available for the original Surface Laptop Studio. It is a big release with many important changes, such as audio and network improvements, performance uplifts for various games, and fixes for external display flickering issues. What is new in the May 2024 firmware update for the Surface Laptop Studio? Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Intel - System - 2334.5.1.0 Intel(R) Management Engine Interface - System devices Surface - Firmware - 15.0.2473.3 Surface ME - Firmware Surface - Firmware - 25.100.143.0 Surface UEFI - Firmware MBIHV - Firmware - 1.7.1.16 Quectel MSFT MBIHV Mobile Broadband Firmware Device - Firmware Surface - Firmware - 2.23.139.0 Surface Pen Cfu Over Ble LC Connection - Firmware Surface - Extension - 1.22.139.0 Surface Pen0C0F Cfu Over BleLc Extn Package - Extensions Surface - Extension - 1.22.139.0 Surface Pen0C0F Firmware Update - Extensions Intel - Software Component - 1.70.101.0 Intel(R) iCLS Client - Software components Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations The first-generation Surface Laptop Studio Supported Windows Versions Windows 10 version 21H2 and newer Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website (manual installation) Update Size 1.4GB (manual installation only) Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps before or after installation Known Issues There are no known bugs or issues The original Surface Laptop Studio has a six-year lifecycle, and it is scheduled to reach the end of support on October 5, 2027. Source

The September 2023 firmware update is now available for the second-generation Surface Duo. Like almost every other update for the Surface Duo 2, the latest one brings nothing but Android security patches. The puny 56MB it requires to install is also another sign that you will have a hard time finding a visible change after installing the September 2023 firmware update for the Surface Duo 2. What is new in the September 2023 firmware update for the Surface Duo 2? Here is the detailed information about the release: Update Version 2023.501.24 Update Size ~56MB What is new This update: Addresses scenarios outlined in the Android Security Bulletin – September 2023. Extra Information The update does not require extra steps to perform before or after installation. Known Bugs Microsoft says the update does not contain any known bugs. How to install the update Connect to a Wi-Fi network you trust. Open the Settings app. Navigate to System > System update > Check for update. Wait for your Surface Duo 2 to download and prepare the latest update, then click Restart now. As a reminder, Microsoft ended support for the original Surface Duo on September 10, 2023. Therefore, the Surface Duo 2 is now the only non-Windows Surface getting monthly firmware updates. Microsoft promises to continue supporting its dual-screen smartphone for one more year—the end of support for the Surface Duo 2 is scheduled on October 21, 2024. Still, do not expect much from the remaining 12 months of support. According to the latest reports, Microsoft moved most of the Duo team to other projects within the company, and there are no plans to upgrade the smartphone past its current Android 12L version. Installing Android 13 or 14 on the first or second-gen Surface Duo will most likely be only possible using unofficial ROMs. Source

Good news for those owning a Surface Pro X and feeling like the tablet could benefit from some app performance improvements: Microsoft is rolling out the September 2023 firmware update with network stability improvements, app performance boosts, fingerprint reliability enhancements, and more. What is new in the Surface Pro X September 2023 firmware update? Surface Pro X (Wi-Fi): Improves Wireless stability and addresses security vulnerability. Improves device audio stability and performance. Addresses 3rd party application performance. Improves Fingerprint reader reliability. Surface Pro X SQ2 and SQ1: Addresses 3rd party application performance. Improves Wi-Fi reliability. Here is the list of new drivers (Surface Pro X Wi-Fi): Driver Version Windows Device Manager 3.30201.210.0 DolbyAPO Software Device (HSA) 3.30508.581.0 DolbyAPO SWC Device 4.15.12412.20015 ELAN WBF Fingerprint Sensor 27.20.1960.0 Qualcomm(R) Adreno(TM) 680 GPU 1.0.1940.0 Qualcomm(R) Aqstic(TM) 1.0.1980.0 Qualcomm(R) Aqstic(TM) Qualcomm(R) Aqstic(TM) Extension Qualcomm(R) Aqstic(TM) Qualcomm(R) Wi-Fi B/G/N/AC (2x2) Svc 6.13.137.0 Surface Dock 2 Firmware Update Driver Extension 6.204.139.0 Surface Integration Service 1.0.1980.0 Surface Pro X Aqstic(TM) Surface Pro X Aqstic(TM) Extension Surface Pro X Qualcomm(R) Aqstic(TM) Extension 1.0.1980.1 Surface Pro X Audio DSP Subsystem Device Extension 1.94.139.0 Surface Type Cover V7 Fingerprint UDE Controller 2.114.139.0 Surface Type Cover v7 Firmware Update Surface Pro X SQ2 and SQ1: Driver Version Device Manager 1.0.1960.0 Qualcomm(R) Wi-Fi B/G/N/AC (2x2) Svc - Network adapters 27.20.1960.0 Microsoft SQ1 Adreno 685 GPU - Display adapters Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro X (Wi-Fi) Surface Pro X SQ2 Surface Pro X SQ1 Supported Windows Versions Windows 11 22H2 and newer (Surface Pro X Wi-Fi) Windows 10 20H1 and newer (Surface Pro X SQ2 and SQ1) How to get the update Windows Update Additional Steps We recommend that you restart your Surface to complete any remaining part of the installation. To restart your device, select Start, and then select Power > Restart. If you still feel that your Surface device is not working correctly, visit our help page for Surface devices, choose how you would like to get support, enter what you need assistance with, and then follow the recommended help or articles. Known Issues No known issues in this update The Surface Pro X lineup with the Microsoft SQ1 and SQ2 chips will remain supported until August 10, 2025. As for the newer Surface Pro X (Wi-Fi), it will continue getting firmware updates for more than two years, with the end of servicing scheduled for October 5, 2025. Source

Microsoft has a new firmware in store for those owning seventh-generation Surface Pro tablets. The September 2023 update improves charging performance and resolves a bug with a stuck Surface logo on boot. Additionally, it contains security patches to keep your Surface Pro safe. Note: This update is not applicable to the Surface Pro 7+ and Surface Pro 7+ LTE. Those are different models with different hardware and separate firmware updates. What is new in the Surface Pro 7 September 2023 firmware update? Addresses security vulnerability and improves system stability and performance. Improves device charging performance and stability. Resolves a device booting to Surface logo issue. Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager Surface - System - 3.100.139.0 Surface Radio Monitor - System devices Surface - Firmware - 14.701.139.0 Surface System Aggregator - Firmware Surface System Aggregator - Firmware Surface System Aggregator - Firmware Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro 7 Supported Windows Versions Windows 10 version 21H2 and newer Windows 11 version 21H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Surface Support website Update Size 663.8 MB for Windows 10 663.9 MB for Windows 11 Additional Steps We recommend that you restart your Surface to complete any remaining part of the installation. To restart your device, select Start, and then select Power > Restart. If you still feel that your Surface device is not working correctly, visit our help page for Surface devices, choose how you would like to get support, enter what you need assistance with, and then follow the recommended help or articles. Known Issues The update does not contain any known issues. The seventh-generation Surface Pro, the last Surface tablet with the old design, will remain supported until February 28, 2024. After that, Microsoft will stop releasing firmware updates and security patches. However, it is worth noting that firmware updates are separate from Windows updates, which means your Surface Pro 7 will continue getting Windows 10 and 11 updates for as long as those operating systems are supported. Source

Microsoft has started rolling out a new set of firmware updates for its ARM-powered Surface Pro X device family. The August 2023 update delivers app performance improvements and Wi-Fi stability enhancements. What is new in the Surface Pro X Wi-Fi August 2023 firmware update? Addresses 3rd party application performance. Here is the list of new drivers: Driver Version Device Manager 10.610.140 Surface UEFI - Firmware 27.20.1960 Microsoft SQ1 Adreno 685 GPU - Display adapters Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro X (Wi-Fi) Supported Windows Versions Windows 11 version 21H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Additional Steps We recommend that you restart your Surface to complete any remaining part of the installation. To restart your device, select Start, and then select Power > Restart. If you still feel that your Surface device is not working correctly, visit our help page for Surface devices, choose how you would like to get support, enter what you need assistance with, and then follow the recommended help or articles. Known Issues No known issues in this update Device Supported Until October 5, 2025 What is new in the Surface Pro X SQ1 and SQ2 August 2023 firmware update? Addresses 3rd party application performance. Improves Wi-Fi reliability. Here is the list of new drivers: Windows Update Name Windows Device Manager 1.0.1960.0 Qualcomm(R) Wi-Fi B/G/N/AC (2x2) Svc - Network adapters 3.610.140.0 Surface UEFI - Firmware 7.610.140.0 Surface UEFI - Firmware 27.20.1960.0 Microsoft SQ1 Adreno 685 GPU - Display adapters Here is extra information about the release: Supported Configurations Surface Pro X SQ1 Surface Pro X SQ2 Supported Windows Versions Windows 10 20H1 and newer Windows 11 21H2 and newer How to get the update Windows Update Additional Steps The update does not require extra steps Known Issues There is an issue initiating the Eye Contact feature on the February 28, 2022, update on devices that have taken the Windows 11 update. To initiate the feature (or turn off), you must toggle the feature within Settings. You will need to do this each time the Camera is used. Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Camera > Surface Camera Front or Surface Camera Rear Toggle the Eye Contact feature. We are actively working to resolve the issue in a future update. Device Supported Until August 10, 2025 Microsoft replaced the Surface Pro X device family with the Surface Pro 9 lineup in October 2022, which now includes optional ARM configurations with 5G connectivity. Still, you can buy the Surface Pro X with the SQ2 processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB SSD for $1,499 on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate when you purchase through links on our site, we earn from qualifying purchases. Source

Netgear is pushing out fixes for a bad Orbi firmware update released earlier this month that prevents users from accessing the device's admin console. On April 27th, Netgear released firmware update 4.6.8.2 for the Orbi RBR750, Orbi RBS750, Orbi RBR850, and Orbi RBS850 mesh Wi-Fi systems. Soon after its release, users began reporting that they could no longer connect to their router's admin console using a web browser or the Orbi app. Orbi customer unable to access admin console after update While the admin interface was down, the router did work, and you could ping the assigned IP address and receive a response. However, you could no longer administer the router and, therefore, make any configuration changes. This author helped someone with this issue on their Orbi router on May 6th, and the only way we could restore access to the admin console was to reset their devices to factory defaults. Unfortunately, as they had no access to the console to backup their configuration, he had to reconfigure the router from scratch after we performed the reset. Netgear starts pushing out a fix On May 13th, Netgear announced that they were aware of the issue and were trying to determine what was causing it. "We are aware of an issue affecting the Orbi RBK85x and RBK75x Series Mesh WiFi 6 Systems," Netgear explained on their status page. "Some customers can no longer access or manage their Orbi systems through the Orbi app or the web user interface. A factory reset usually resolves this issue. We are working to understand the root cause and identify an alternative recovery method that doesn't require a factory reset." As Orbi users continued to download and install the firmware, more people began experiencing the issue leading to Netgear finally pulling the firmware. Finally, almost three weeks later, Netgear has started rolling out patches to affected customers to resolve the issues. Initially, Netgear required users to contact their support team and provide a serial number for their device. After a serial number was provided, Netgear pushed out a fix to the affected devices, allowing access to the admin console after rebooting the device. Netgear now says they are deploying a fix to all devices shortly. However, those who do not wish to wait can still contact Netgear support to have the patch pushed out to them. "Christine here from NETGEAR. I am reaching out to confirm u/mary55330 message and note that we have had a lot of positive feedback that this fix does in fact recover the ability to access the router settings via the app and web user interface," a Netgear support member posted to Reddit. "We will be deploying the fix to the general audience in the very near future so you're welcome to wait. For those who may not want to wait, please send me your serial number via direct message and I'll have the fix rolled out to you promptly." While a fix is now available, Netgear has not provided any details as to what caused the issue in the first place. BleepingComputer has reached out to Netgear to learn more about the problem but never received a response. Netgear fixes bad Orbi firmware update that locked admin console