Microsoft’s Windows Update has long served as a reliable gateway for updating the operating system and select Microsoft products. However, when it comes to third-party applications, users often find themselves navigating a labyrinth of individual updates, each requiring separate attention. The prospect of a more streamlined approach is now on the horizon, as Microsoft unveils plans for a unified update experience.
Windows Update orchestration platform
In a recent blog post, Microsoft product manager Angie Chen introduced the “Windows Update orchestration platform,” currently in its preview phase. This innovative service is designed to empower developers and product teams by providing an API that allows their applications to seamlessly integrate with Windows Update.
Utilizing Windows Runtime (WinRT) APIs and PowerShell commands, this orchestration platform enables third-party developers to incorporate their app installers or management tools directly into the Windows Update framework. The initial step involves registering with the orchestrator as an update provider. During this registration process, developers will use the API to input essential details, including the path to an executable file for update scanning, the update’s title and version, installation deadlines, and whether a reboot is necessary post-installation. The orchestrator takes charge of scheduling, downloading, and installing updates, while also intelligently managing the process based on the update’s success or failure. If an update installs successfully, it is marked complete; if not, the orchestrator promptly reschedules the installation.
Benefits for developers and users
Chen highlighted several advantages for developers in her announcement. Updates for third-party applications can be deferred based on various factors such as user activity, system performance, and power connection, ensuring that updates occur at the most opportune times. Additionally, developers will benefit from native Windows Update notifications, enhancing user engagement.
For users, the benefits are equally compelling. Gone are the days of manually checking each application for updates; instead, users will have access to a comprehensive update history for any supported third-party app, mirroring the current experience with Windows updates. This initiative caters to a broad audience, from casual home users to enterprise customers. While automated application updates are not a novel concept—existing solutions like Norton 360 and Patch My PC Home Updater already offer similar functionalities—Microsoft’s approach through Windows Update promises a more cohesive and user-friendly experience, contingent on developer participation.
“Updates across the Windows ecosystem can feel like a fragmented experience,” Chen remarked. “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.”
How developers can join the private preview
Developers interested in participating in the private preview or seeking further information can reach out to Microsoft at unifiedorchestrator@service.microsoft.com.
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