Microsoft is embarking on a transformative journey by introducing a new orchestration platform that will revolutionize how developers update applications through Windows Update. This initiative marks a significant shift in the way third-party applications are managed, allowing developers to enroll in a private preview of what is being termed the Windows Update orchestration platform. This platform is designed to facilitate updates for any application or driver, with a particular emphasis on business applications, while remaining open to a broader range of apps and management tools.
Currently, Windows Update primarily serves to refresh the core components of the operating system, alongside essential drivers and select third-party management applications. Angie Chen, a product manager at Microsoft, articulates the vision behind this initiative: “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.”
Traditionally, most applications on Windows have relied on independent update mechanisms devised by their developers. The new orchestration platform aims to streamline this process, enabling app developers to leverage scheduled updates that consider user activity, battery status, and even sustainable energy timings. This integration promises to enhance the user experience significantly.
Additionally, developers will gain the ability to connect directly with the native Windows Update notifications, ensuring their applications are prominently featured in the update history section of Windows Update. Microsoft is committed to supporting MSIX and APPX packaged applications, along with certain custom Win32 apps. Importantly, any applications integrated into the Windows Update orchestration will benefit from ongoing enhancements to the underlying Windows Update platform.
In the past, Microsoft has endeavored to persuade developers to list their applications in the Microsoft Store, which facilitates updates while allowing developers the option to maintain their own update mechanisms. Despite notable improvements to the store in recent years, some applications remain absent, and many businesses prefer to manage updates for their proprietary applications independently.
Furthermore, Microsoft’s Windows Package Manager has attempted to address some challenges associated with app installation and updates, though its adoption has largely been limited to power users and developers. The integration of more app updates into Windows Update is a logical progression that could cater to a diverse array of applications. It will be intriguing to observe whether this new system will primarily attract business users or entice major developers, such as Adobe, to transition from their existing background installers to the Windows Update framework.
