KnowBe4 has launched KnowBe4 Prevent, an AI-driven email security product specifically designed to manage outbound email risks for small and medium-sized businesses. This new offering aims to address the significant issue of data breaches caused by human error, which accounts for 60% of incidents, according to Verizon. KnowBe4 Prevent proactively alerts users in real time when they are about to send emails or attachments to incorrect recipients, leveraging advanced machine learning to identify risky actions and prevent potential data breaches. The product also provides detailed reporting and analytics, allowing organizations to gain insights into their outbound email security risks.
Microsoft has announced that it will cease adding new features to its Office applications for Windows 10 users starting in August 2026. Security updates for these applications will remain available until October 2028, but users will need to upgrade to Windows 11 to access the latest features. The change affects Microsoft 365 Personal and Family users, as well as business users on the Current Channel. Monthly enterprise channel users will also lose access to new features by October 13, 2026, followed by semi-annual enterprise channel users on January 12, 2027. Although Microsoft had previously extended security updates for Office apps on Windows 10, the decision to halt new feature support marks a significant shift in its strategy, compelling users to transition to Windows 11 if they want to stay current with Microsoft 365 innovations.
Amazon has delayed the launch of its new web version of the Alexa virtual assistant, originally set to debut in June, now expected no sooner than July 31, 2025. Internal documents indicate that the company underestimated the complexity of launching Alexa.com, which aims to compete with text-based chatbots like ChatGPT. Amazon executive Panos Panay announced earlier this year that the new Alexa would help users with long-form tasks and be accessible to over 100 million Prime subscribers. However, the rollout has faced challenges, with customer feedback highlighting issues such as slow response times and a “too chatty” voice, leading to a need for further adjustments before a wider release.
Why do we care?
Three distinct signals, one throughline: pressure on SMBs and IT teams to adapt faster than they’re comfortable with.
This isn’t subtle. Microsoft is signaling: “upgrade to Windows 11 or get left behind.”
As for Amazon, I’ve been wrong on voice so far. That doesn’t mean it won’t eventually happen. But don’t bet the farm on it.