Microsoft has released a new Windows 10 update that goes to fix many issues that have come out in recent months. Here's what they are
It's called KB4559004, was released yesterday and marks Microsoft's return to monthly non-security updates, discontinued in recent months due to the Covid-19 emergency. It's an optional update for Windows 10, released on July 21, which brings the operating system up to Build 17763.1369.
According to Microsoft, KB4559004 fixes many of the issues that have recently appeared on Windows 10 version 1809, Windows Server version 1809, and all versions of Windows Server 2019. Specifically, File Explorer errors and a connectivity issue on devices with LTE modems that came up after cumulative update KB4556799 (the so-called May 2020 Patch Tuesday). Also fixed are some webcam issues and other minor problems with Microsoft Family Safety, a tool for monitoring the use of electronic devices also aimed at limiting screen addiction in kids.
Windows 10 KB4559004: issues fixed
Among the previous bugs that are fixed with the new Windows 10 update is an issue that could cause the magnifying glass in Microsoft Excel to stop working in certain scenarios (in worst cases Excel could even stop working). File Explorer is updated to allow the user to delete old searches from the search box in the top right corner, and to prevent it from stopping working when browsing image directories in certain formats, such as Raw.
The KB4559004 also fixes an issue that prevents the system from recognizing the camera and using it for facial unlocking with Windows Hello, and another issue that could prevent a Windows 10 device from connecting to the Internet when using a LTE WWAN (wireless wide area network) modem. In the latter case, it's impossible to connect even though the indicator on the Start menu bar says there are no connection problems.
Windows 10 KB4559004: should you install it?
Microsoft, as usual, says there are no known problems resulting from the installation of this non-security update. However, given the recent history (and also the not-so-recent history) of Windows updates, and given that KB4559004 doesn't fix any security issues with the operating system, those who aren't experiencing any of the bugs that the update goes to fix can easily choose not to update Windows 10.