orchestration Archives

Winsage

May 31, 2025

Microsoft Debuts Windows Update Orchestration Platform For Updating All Apps From A Single Place

Microsoft has introduced the Windows Update Orchestration Platform, which aims to centralize the management of line-of-business (LOB) and third-party applications through a single interface, enhancing the app update process for developers and users. Currently in private preview, the platform invites developers to explore its features, which include eco-efficient scheduling, consistent notifications, centralized update history, and unified troubleshooting tools. Developers can integrate their applications using Windows Runtime APIs and PowerShell commands to manage various aspects such as registration and update definitions. The initiative addresses challenges like CPU and bandwidth spikes, conflicting notifications, and increased support costs faced by users and IT administrators.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Microsoft unveils “centralized” software update tool for Windows

Microsoft is developing a Windows-native update orchestration platform to improve the software updating experience for IT administrators and end-users. This platform aims to streamline the management of updates across various applications and components within the Windows ecosystem, reducing confusion caused by independent updates for different products. Currently in private preview, developers can access the platform through Windows Runtime (WinRT) APIs and PowerShell commands by registering as update providers. The orchestrator will intelligently defer updates based on user activity and system performance, and it will automatically reschedule failed attempts. Additionally, Microsoft is introducing Windows Backup for Organizations to assist with the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11. This feature simplifies the backup and restoration of settings for Windows 10 and 11 devices. To use this functionality, devices must be Microsoft Entra hybrid joined or Microsoft Entra joined and running a supported version of Windows. The restore feature is compatible only with Microsoft Entra joined devices running Windows 11, version 22H2 and later. The Windows Backup for Organizations feature is currently in a limited public preview for select members of the Microsoft Management Customer Connection Program.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Windows 11’s new update system is a brutal reminder of where the Microsoft Store falls short

Microsoft has introduced a "unified future for app updates" through a new Windows Update orchestration platform, aiming to streamline the update process for applications, drivers, and components on personal computers. This initiative addresses the fragmented nature of traditional app and driver updates, which often burden IT administrators. In late 2024, Microsoft began testing a feature allowing the Microsoft Store to update applications not hosted on its servers, transforming it into a "one-stop shop for all app updates." The new orchestration platform supports apps and components not listed in the Microsoft Store, enhancing the update experience alongside improvements to the Microsoft Store and the Windows Package Manager.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Microsoft Opens Windows Update to 3rd-Party Apps

Microsoft is enhancing its Windows Update tool to manage updates for both its products and third-party applications, aiming to streamline the update process. A private preview for developers will be initiated, focusing on business applications but eventually accommodating a wider range of apps. The new "Windows Update orchestration platform" will allow developers to integrate their applications into a unified system that intelligently schedules updates based on factors like user activity and battery status. This platform will provide an API for updates through Windows Update, improving user experience by centralizing updates and allowing better control over the update process. The initiative addresses the fragmented experience IT administrators face and aims to create a cohesive update process. Critics note the delay in implementing a unified update framework, while the initiative also seeks to enhance security by consolidating updates and reducing the risks associated with ad-hoc update agents.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Microsoft opens Windows Update to third-party apps

Microsoft has introduced a Windows Update orchestration platform to enhance the update experience for app developers and management tool vendors by centralizing update scheduling across Windows 11 devices. A select group of developers will have access to this framework, which allows applications to register their own update logic through WinRT APIs and PowerShell, enabling centralized scheduling, logging, and policy enforcement. The platform supports MSIX/APPX and Win32 apps that use designated APIs and commands, and is currently available as a private preview. Additionally, Microsoft has launched Windows Backup for Organizations, now in limited public preview, designed to back up Windows 10 and 11 devices while preserving user settings. This service is intended to facilitate system migrations and provide a safeguard against malware or ransomware. Specific requirements for participation include having a supported version of Windows and being enrolled in certain Microsoft programs.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft introduces new Windows backup tool for businesses

Microsoft has launched Windows Backup for Organizations, a backup solution for enterprises currently in limited public preview. It allows organizations to back up and restore user Windows settings after device resets or reimaging, aiming to reduce migration overhead, minimize user disruption, and strengthen device resilience. The tool supports both Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems joined to Microsoft Entra. Companies must register and have an active Microsoft Intune test tenant with administrator permissions to participate in the preview. Microsoft advises organizations to enroll Windows 10 endpoints in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program if they cannot transition to Windows 11 by October 14, 2025, and has announced that home users can also opt for an additional year of security updates through the ESU program for a fee. Additionally, Microsoft introduced a new update orchestration platform to unify the updating system across Windows environments.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft’s Windows Update to include third-party apps – now that’s a game changer

Microsoft is introducing a "Windows Update orchestration platform" that allows third-party developers to integrate their applications with Windows Update. This platform, currently in preview, provides an API for developers to register their apps as update providers, enabling seamless scheduling, downloading, and installation of updates. Developers can defer updates based on user activity and system performance, while users will benefit from a unified update history for all supported applications. Developers interested in the private preview can contact Microsoft at unifiedorchestrator@service.microsoft.com.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Windows Update will soon add app updates to its functionality

Windows Update is evolving to support individual application updates, moving beyond its traditional focus on system-wide updates. Microsoft plans to introduce a new orchestration platform that allows developers to implement software updates directly through Windows Update, streamlining the process and enhancing user experience. This integration aims to improve the efficiency and timeliness of updates for end-users.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft’s New Windows Update — What It Means For Your Apps

Microsoft is introducing a new Windows Update orchestration platform aimed at creating a unified update strategy that integrates apps, drivers, and all updateable components into a single system. This initiative follows challenges with the current update process, including a controversial security update that caused issues for users. The new platform is currently available for developers and app product teams to explore, and it aims to provide a more cohesive and efficient update experience.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps

Microsoft is introducing a new orchestration platform for Windows Update that will allow developers to manage updates for applications and drivers more effectively. This platform will enable developers to enroll in a private preview and is designed to support updates for a wide range of applications, particularly business applications. Currently, Windows Update focuses on core operating system components and essential drivers. The new platform aims to streamline the update process by allowing developers to schedule updates based on user activity and other factors. Developers will also be able to connect their applications with Windows Update notifications, ensuring visibility in the update history. Microsoft plans to support MSIX, APPX, and certain custom Win32 applications within this framework. The initiative follows previous efforts to encourage developers to list applications in the Microsoft Store, which has seen limited adoption for some proprietary applications. Additionally, the Windows Package Manager has been introduced to tackle app installation and update challenges, although its use has been mainly among power users and developers.