Microsoft is rolling out Windows Update improvements that give users more control over how updates are installed while reducing disruption from frequent or poorly timed restarts.
The company says the improvements are now rolling out to Windows Insiders, following user feedback that highlighted two key issues: updates are disrupting workflows, and there is a lack of control over when they are installed.
“We are continually reading the feedback submitted about the Windows update experience. Personally, I’ve had the opportunity to read over 7,621 direct verbatims over the last few months,” explains Microsoft’s Aria Hanson.
“Across this feedback there are two key themes that persistently pop out: disruption caused by untimely updates and not enough control over when updates happen. The changes we’re rolling out today are focused on giving Windows users more control over their PC experience, while keeping devices secure by design and by default.”
Microsoft has already introduced a new feature that lets Windows users skip updates during the out-of-box experience (OOBE), allowing them to access the desktop faster and install updates when it’s most convenient. This option is not available on managed commercial devices or systems that require updates to function.
The company is now introducing changes to how update pauses work, allowing Windows users to select a specific date to pause updates for up to 35 days using a flyout calendar interface. This pause can then be extended repeatedly without a fixed limit.
Source: Microsoft
Another change targets a common complaint, which is unexpected updates during shutdown or restart.
The Power menu will now separate standard power options from update-related actions, offering “Restart” and “Shut down” options without triggering updates, while the normal “Update and restart” and “Update and shut down” options are used when updates are ready to be installed.
Source: Microsoft
Microsoft says they are also going to be clearer about how they offer updates, especially drivers, which are commonly offered under the same company name but without any indication of which device they are for.
Windows Update will now display the device type, such as display, audio, or battery, directly in the update title to help users determine what is being installed.
Finally, Microsoft is reducing disruptions by consolidating different update types into a single monthly restart. For example, Driver, .NET, and firmware updates will now be installed along with the monthly cumulative updates, reducing the number of required reboots.
“Updates will download in the background, then will wait for a coordinated installation and restart. This installation and restart will align with the next Windows quality update or other update that you manually approve,” explains Hanson.
“Users can always acquire all or specific updates earlier if desired by initiating download, install, restart (if applicable) for available updates.”
The features are currently rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Experimental channels, with them later being rolled out to all users.
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