Microsoft news recap: Bing Chat gains image input, Google alleges unfair practices against Microsoft’s Azure, and more

Microsoft news recap is a weekly feature highlighting the top Microsoft news stories of the past week. Sit back, grab some coffee, and enjoy the read!

Bing Chat is now equipped to receive images as input

This week has seen reports of users beginning to be able to see a new feature in Bing Chat that allows users to upload images as input. Once an image is uploaded to Bing Chat, it is deciphered and Bing Chat can provide context or further information on the image. For example, you could upload a meme and Bing Chat will provide context and explanation behind it.

Google levies allegations of unfair practices against Microsoft’s Azure cloud unit

Google has filed an official grievance against Microsoft with the FTC, claiming that Microsoft uses deceptive tactics in order to secure deals for its Azure cloud business. It forms part of an enquiry by the FTC to seek opinions on activities that could be anti-competitive.

Microsoft to raise Xbox Series X, Game Pass prices

As inflation takes hold in several countries post-pandemic, Microsoft is increasing the price for its Xbox Series X console and its Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. Prices will rise in August in most countries with the exception of US, Japan, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia. The price rise will bring the cost of the Xbox Series X closer to that of Sony’s PlayStation 5.

Microsoft beefs up its list of Windows 11 supported CPUs

The list of supported CPUs for Windows 11 has been updated with a number of new entries. Windows 11 is now listed to support Intel’s 6GHz Core i9-13900KS alongside Intel Raptor Lake mobile CPUs, which include the i5-1334U, 1335U, 1335UE, and 13500HS., as well as AMD’s AM4-based 5800X3D and the AM5-based 7950X3D, 7900X3D, and 7800X3D, among others, and Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 and the Microsoft SQ3.

That’s it for this week. We will be back next week with more Microsoft news.