update experience Archives

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 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 29, 2025

Upgrading to Windows 11 just got easier – Microsoft introduces a new business backup tool

Windows has introduced a new backup tool for organizations, currently in limited public preview, designed to assist in backing up Windows settings during the resetting or reimaging of user devices. This tool supports both Windows 10 and Windows 11, facilitating smoother migration to Windows 11. It was announced at Microsoft Ignite in 2024 and aims to reduce migration overhead and user disruption. Organizations must operate Microsoft Entra joined Windows systems, have an active Microsoft Intune test tenant, and possess Microsoft Intune service administrator permissions to participate in the preview. Additionally, Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for businesses unable to upgrade to Windows 11 before Windows 10's end of support on October 14, 2025. Microsoft has also introduced a feature for developers that allows software to seek updates via Windows Update for a more unified app update experience.

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

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 opening up Windows Update to third-party applications through a private preview of its new Windows Update orchestration platform. This platform aims to streamline the update process for any application or driver, focusing primarily on business applications while being accessible to a variety of apps and management tools. Traditionally, Windows Update has served to refresh core operating system components and essential drivers, but the new platform will allow developers to schedule updates based on user activity, battery status, and energy usage. Developers will also be able to connect with native Windows Update notifications, ensuring their applications appear in the update history. Microsoft will support MSIX and APPX packaged applications, as well as certain custom Win32 apps. Previous efforts to manage updates through the Microsoft Store and Windows Package Manager have seen limited adoption, raising questions about the future use of this new feature by businesses and major developers.

Winsage

April 11, 2025

Windows 11’s latest preview build makes updating your PC less of a hassle

Microsoft has released a new Release Preview build for Windows 11 Insiders, featuring significant updates. The Windows Update feature now provides an estimated offline time for updates, accessible through the Windows Update settings and the Start menu power button. The KB5055627 update introduces the Copilot+ Recall feature, which captures snapshots of user activities for easy information retrieval, requiring Windows Hello for secure access and specific system requirements. Windows Search has been improved to allow searches using descriptive terms instead of exact names, and the Click to DO feature suggests relevant applications based on user selections. These features will be rolled out gradually, and users can find guidance through the Windows Insider Program.

Winsage

April 6, 2025

Microsoft blocks Windows 11 24H2 update on some new PCs

Microsoft has informed Windows 10 users that their devices are not eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11 due to system requirements and recommends transitioning to a new PC with Windows 11. A new compatibility issue has arisen with the sprotect.sys driver, causing system freezes and errors on Windows 11 version 24H2, leading Microsoft to impose a compatibility hold on affected devices. This hold prevents these devices from being prompted to install Windows 11, version 24H2. Users with impacted devices will see a notification on the Windows Update page indicating no immediate action is required. IT administrators can monitor the issue using safeguard ID 56318982. Microsoft advises against forcing the update if the system is incompatible and is working with SenseShield Technology Co. to resolve the issue.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.