For enthusiasts and professionals alike, MIDI has long been synonymous with the nostalgic sounds of SoundBlaster cards, chiptunes, and the iconic WAD files that accompany unforgettable synth scores. In a significant leap forward, Microsoft Windows is now previewing MIDI 2.0, marking the first substantial update to the MIDI protocol since its inception in 1983.
Windows MIDI Services Unveiled
As part of Build 27788 within the Windows 11 Canary Channel, Microsoft is integrating an in-box public preview of Windows MIDI Services. While this experimental build does not guarantee a public release, the extensive efforts already invested by Microsoft suggest that a wider rollout is on the horizon.
The Windows MIDI Services encompass an enhanced MIDI stack, which not only introduces MIDI 2.0 but also upgrades MIDI 1.0 to ensure compatibility with Arm64 architecture alongside traditional Windows systems. This protocol serves as a vital tool for recording and playing back music, forming the backbone for synchronizing drum machines and synthesizers.
According to Microsoft, MIDI 2.0 is designed with the modern musician in mind, featuring:
- Increased speed and fidelity
- Enhanced control over instruments
- Modern bi-directional communication and negotiation between devices
- Improved USB timing
- An open-source framework
For those interested in the technical aspects, Microsoft has shared a blog post detailing the myriad features, including a high-speed MIDI class driver developed by the Association of Musical Electronics Industry of Japan (AMEI) and crafted by AmeNote. Additionally, an entire Software Development Kit (SDK) is available, with Microsoft also collaborating on a Network MII 2.0 transport layer to support third-party equipment that aligns with the new standard.
Additional Enhancements in Build 27788
This latest build is not solely focused on MIDI advancements; it also brings a host of fixes and improvements to enhance user experience:
- File Explorer now restores all previously opened tabs when the “Restore previous folder windows at logon” option is enabled.
- Users working on a OneDrive file on their mobile device will receive a notification on their PC, allowing them to seamlessly continue where they left off.
- A new feature has been introduced to disable the “Start backup” prompt for users who are not currently backing up their Documents, Pictures, or Desktop folders.
