Microsoft says it's 'fixed' a dodgy Surface webcam bug, but Ive got bigger concerns

Date:
Wed, 31 May 2023 16:06:47 +0000

Description:
Microsoft has issued a temporary fix for a bug that was disabling the webcam on some Surface models, but there's a bigger issue.

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Microsoft has issued a fix for a bug that has been locking owners of some Windows devices including the Surface Pro X out of their webcams. Unfortunately, its only a band-aid repair job; a temporary critical troubleshooter update, rather than a proper camera driver update.

The bug, which was caused by an expired security certificate, completely disabled the integrated webcam on a number of devices specifically those running Windows on older ARM processors including the Qualcomm 8cx Gen 2 and Microsofts own SQ1 and SQ2 chips. Most notable among these is Microsofts own Surface Pro X.

Microsofts fix, which is detailed in the patch notes here , involves
deploying an automatic troubleshooter. However, company-owned Surface devices with automatic troubleshooting disabled will need to have it run manually, which is an arduous process. Microsoft also warned that using the troubleshooter could result in reduced webcam functionality and image
quality, so not the greatest of fixes. Whats going on with Microsofts certs right now?

Theres no news on exactly when a proper driver update might turn up, but hopefully we wont have to wait too long. In its official statement, Microsoft claimed it was working with OEMs to deliver an actual fix, since some of the affected devices arent within the Surface line.

Im concerned that this isnt the last weve seen of troublesome bugs like this, though. Its been less than a month since Microsoft fixed an entirely
different issue caused by an expired certificate in Windows, and while these things happen, Microsoft wasnt exactly swift to rectify the issue in that particular situation.

Im left wondering if expiring certs are going to become Microsofts next big headache. Windows 10 uses a lot of digital certificates for day-to-day operations and interacting with third-party software, and if Microsoft doesnt keep ahead of the game by ensuring these are up to date, were going to see a spate of other bugs like this one.

Sure, maybe its nothing to worry about. Microsofts newer Surface Pro 9 5G
runs Windows 11 on the ARM-based SQ3 processor, and was notably unaffected by the webcam issue. And with Windows 12 likely launching next year, perhaps a slowdown in support for Windows 10 is to be expected. But still, Im a tad concerned hopefully Microsoft can prove me wrong.



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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/news/microsoft-says-its-fixed-a-dodgy-surface-webcam -bug-but-ive-got-bigger-concerns


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