Microsoft’s Vision: Empowering Windows Update to Manage All Your Apps Seamlessly

Microsoft is taking a big step by opening Windows Update to third-party apps. They’re inviting developers to join a private preview for a new platform called the Windows Update orchestration. This will let Windows Update support updates not just for the operating system but also for various apps and drivers in the future.

Currently, Windows Update mainly handles essential system updates and some drivers. Angie Chen, a product manager at Microsoft, stated that the goal is to create a smart platform that can unify all updates. This means any app updates could be scheduled based on user activity or even battery status.

Most Windows apps update separately, using their own systems. Now, with this orchestration platform, developers can tap into the native Windows Update notifications and have their updates listed in the Windows Update history. Microsoft plans to support different types of apps, including MSIX, APPX, and even some custom Win32 apps. This means that apps connected to this system will automatically benefit from future updates.

In the past, Microsoft encouraged developers to list their apps in the Microsoft Store. While the store has improved, many businesses still prefer managing app updates on their own. The Windows Package Manager also attempts to simplify app management, but it hasn’t gained much traction outside the developer community.

The integration of app updates into Windows Update could change how many developers handle updates. It will be interesting to see if big names like Adobe will adopt this new approach, or if businesses will mainly be the ones to benefit. Recent surveys show that efficiency in updates is a major concern for IT departments, so this could be a welcome change.

With this shift, Microsoft is tapping into a growing trend. According to a report from Statista, software updates are crucial for security and performance, which is why users are eager for more streamlined solutions.

This transformation in how updates are managed might not only cut down on the hassle for users but also improve security overall. As Windows continues to evolve, keeping app updates unified could make Windows a more robust platform for both users and developers alike.

For more information on this development, you can check out Microsoft’s Tech Community blog.

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