Microsoft opens Windows Update to third-party apps

Microsoft is taking a significant step towards enhancing the update experience for app developers and management tool vendors with the introduction of a Windows Update orchestration platform. This initiative aims to centralize update scheduling across Windows 11 devices, streamlining the often fragmented process of managing updates.

Centralized Update Management

On Tuesday, the tech giant from Redmond announced that a select group of developers and product teams will gain access to the Windows 11 update framework. This new system does not automatically push updates; rather, it empowers applications to register their own update logic through WinRT APIs and PowerShell. This functionality facilitates centralized scheduling, logging, and policy enforcement, ultimately creating a more cohesive update experience.

Angie Chen, a product manager at Microsoft, articulated the need for this innovation in a recent blog post, stating, “Updates across the Windows ecosystem can feel like a fragmented experience. To solve this, we’re building a vision for a unified, intelligent update orchestration platform capable of supporting any update (apps, drivers, etc.) to be orchestrated alongside Windows updates.”

The orchestration platform promises to enhance user experience by allowing intelligent scheduling of updates. Factors such as user activity, system performance, and AC power status will influence when updates are installed. For instance, updates may be scheduled to occur when a device is idle or connected to a power source, thereby minimizing disruption to users.

All actions related to updates will be meticulously logged and made accessible through a unified diagnostic system, which will aid in troubleshooting and streamline the resolution of issues. Currently, the platform supports MSIX/APPX apps and Win32 apps that incorporate custom installation logic, provided that developers utilize the designated Windows Runtime (WinRT) APIs and PowerShell commands.

At this stage, the orchestration platform is available only as a private preview. Interested developers can request access by contacting unifiedorchestrator@service.microsoft.com. Microsoft is adopting a cautious approach to mitigate the risk of update conflicts, with plans to expand availability based on the performance of the preview.

Windows Backup for Organizations

In addition to the orchestration platform, Microsoft has also introduced Windows Backup for Organizations, which has recently entered a limited public preview. Initially unveiled at Microsoft Ignite in November 2024, this service is designed to back up Windows 10 and 11 devices, allowing for restoration with the same settings intact. This feature is particularly timely as organizations prepare for the end of life for Windows 10 in October.

According to Microsoft, “With Windows Backup for Organizations, get your users up and running as quickly as possible with their familiar Windows settings already in place.” This capability is not only beneficial for system migrations but could also serve as a safeguard against malware or ransomware infections. Instead of succumbing to ransom demands, organizations could restore affected machines from backups, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.

However, detailed documentation on the backup-restore process remains limited. Organizations interested in participating in the trial are encouraged to sign up and share their experiences. It’s important to note that there are specific requirements to qualify for the service. Basic backups necessitate a supported version of Windows 10 or 11, and devices must be either Microsoft Entra joined or hybrid joined. Additionally, restoring settings on new or reimaged PCs requires Windows 11 version 22H2 or later, an active Microsoft Intune test tenant with administrator permissions, and enrollment in the Microsoft Management Customer Connection Program.

As Windows 10 continues to be the most widely used operating system from Microsoft, the company is actively working to facilitate migrations to Windows 11. The introduction of backup and restore capabilities is a strategic move to ease corporate users through this transition.

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Microsoft opens Windows Update to third-party apps