Even Windows 10 cannot escape the new Outlook

Microsoft fixes DAC woes and makes good on its New Outlook threat for Windows 10

There is mixed news for Windows users. Microsoft has released a patch it claims fixes the DAC problem. The bad news – for some users – is that the new Outlook for Windows app has reached Windows 10.

The preview update rolled out over the last two days, with patches for Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2 (KB5050092) released on January 29, and KB5050094 for Windows 11 24H2 released on January 28.

Microsoft's work on Windows' audio system is in the rollout. The company claims to have dealt with an issue with audio device drivers where the message "This device cannot start" appeared when connecting to external audio management devices, a previously reported known issue with USB Digital / Analog converters (DAC).

Users brave enough to try out the update reported on social media that the DAC problem did indeed appear to have been solved. Some, however, registered other complaints, so as with any update, it would – if possible – be sensible to test it first and be prepared to roll it back.

As promised by Microsoft, the update (KB5050081) also included some extras for Windows 10. As well as the audio fixes, the new Outlook for Windows app has put in an appearance.

Microsoft said, "A new app icon appears in the Apps section on the Start menu, near classic Outlook.

"There are no changes to any settings or defaults."

Most versions of Windows 10 are rapidly approaching the end of the road. Support is due to end on October 14. While Microsoft has shown no desire to keep affected versions supported past that date, it has continued to update the platform. Although ditching the Mail and Calendar applications in favor of the new Outlook for Windows app is probably not what users had in mind as an "update."

Support for Mail and Calendar ended on December 31, 2024. In a support article, Microsoft said, "You can no longer able (sic) to send and receive emails or events using Windows Mail and Calendar. Any local emails, calendar events, and contacts stored in Mail, Calendar, and People will remain exportable following the steps in Export emails and contacts from Windows Mail or People and import to new Outlook.

"We recommend you move to new Outlook or Outlook.com." ®