Windows updates Archives

Winsage

June 3, 2025

Windows 11 will finally stop nagging you to set Edge as your default browser — but only in some markets

Microsoft is implementing updates to Windows 10 and Windows 11 to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) for users in the European Economic Area (EEA). Key changes include the removal of persistent prompts to set Microsoft Edge as the default browser, with notifications only appearing upon launching Edge. Users will have their choice of a third-party browser automatically applied to more link and file types, and the selected browser will be pinned to the Taskbar without extra steps. Additionally, if Microsoft Edge is uninstalled, other Microsoft applications will not prompt users to reinstall it, specifically for Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) using Edge technology. These updates are expected to roll out starting in June, with previews already available to Insiders.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Forced E-Waste PCs And The Case Of Windows 11’s Trusted Platform

The process of upgrading Windows operating systems was straightforward until Windows 11, which introduced a new requirement for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), potentially rendering many capable PCs obsolete. The TPM is used for boot validation and storing biometric data, but it complicates data recovery and may lock out legitimate users. Users have found ways to bypass Windows 11's TPM and CPU restrictions, allowing installation on unsupported hardware. Microsoft’s enforcement of these requirements remains uncertain, raising concerns about system reliability and user access to updates. Many users are opting to stay on Windows 10 while advocating for continued support from developers.

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’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 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.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft wants Windows to update all software on your PC

Microsoft has introduced an update orchestration platform to improve the Windows Update infrastructure, streamlining the updating process for applications, drivers, and system components. Developers and IT teams can onboard updates using Windows Runtime (WinRT) APIs or PowerShell commands and can join the private preview by contacting unifiedorchestrator@service.microsoft.com. The platform includes an update scan tool that manages downloads and installations based on user activity, power status, and network conditions, while also handling restart requirements and notification deadlines. It is currently in private preview for developers creating apps or management tools for updates, supporting applications packaged as MSIX, APPX, or Win32 installers. The platform offers a consistent notification experience and centralized app update history within the Settings app, and it works alongside Microsoft's Winget package manager and third-party tools like Chocolatey and Scoop.

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

May 20, 2025

Microsoft revives DOS-era Edit in a modern shell

Microsoft has reintroduced Edit, a text editor originally from the MS-DOS era, as an open-source tool available on GitHub. It weighs under 250 KB and is designed for the modern command line, featuring mouse support, Unicode compatibility, and various editing functionalities like word wrap and Find & Replace. Edit will be integrated into Windows 11, with a preview version available for Windows Insiders. The application is noted for its speed and stability, providing a practical solution for text file edits directly from the command line.

Winsage

May 19, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5603 (Dev Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5603 (KB5058488) is being released to the Dev Channel. New features include AI actions in File Explorer, allowing users to edit images and summarize documents via right-click options. Four image actions are available: Bing Visual Search, Blur Background, Erase Objects, and Remove Background, supporting .jpg, .jpeg, and .png file types. Upcoming AI actions for Microsoft 365 files include generating document summaries and creating FAQs, requiring a Microsoft 365 subscription with Copilot. Advanced settings have been redesigned for easier access, introducing features like Enable long paths and Virtual workspaces. Improvements include updates to the taskbar, search functionality, and accessibility features. Known issues involve problems with Xbox Controllers and various features in File Explorer and Narrator.