Veteran Microsoft engineer Raymond Chen recently shared insights into the company’s decision to abandon its whimsical naming conventions for Windows 10 releases, opting instead for the more straightforward H1 and H2 designations.
Global Considerations in Naming
Chen explained that the shift stemmed from a realization that terms like “Spring” and “Fall” were not universally applicable. In regions such as the UK, “Fall” holds little significance, while the concept of “Spring” varies across different hemispheres. This inconsistency prompted a reevaluation of how updates were named to better reflect Microsoft’s global customer base.
During a pivotal meeting, a colleague from the Southern Hemisphere highlighted this Northern Hemisphere bias, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in naming conventions. This prompted Microsoft to adopt the more neutral H1 and H2 labels, which sidestep seasonal references altogether.
Marketing vs. Functionality
While the new naming system may lack the charm of previous titles like the “Creators Update,” which was used between 2017 and 2018, it aligns more closely with the company’s operational needs. The simplicity of alphanumeric designations allows for clearer communication, though it may not resonate as well with marketing teams.
In addition to these major updates, Microsoft continues to release monthly updates, some of which are intentionally left dormant to ease the burden on system administrators. This strategy reflects a commitment to user experience while maintaining operational efficiency.
Shifting Update Strategy
As of February 2021, Microsoft announced a significant change in its update strategy, moving away from two major feature updates each year to a single update in the latter half of the year, coinciding with the transition to a new Windows version. The upcoming Windows 11 25H2 is anticipated for release in September or October, marking a new chapter in the company’s approach to software updates.
Chen’s reflections hark back to the era of Windows 10, a time when Microsoft sought to project a more vibrant and dynamic image. However, challenges such as the infamous document-destroying Windows 10 October 2018 Update underscored the necessity for a more measured and pragmatic approach to software development and release.
Despite the occasional humor in referring to problematic updates—such as “the Update of the Damned”—the overarching goal remains clear: to enhance user experience while fostering a sense of global inclusivity.
