Microsoft is making a big, welcome change to how Windows 10 does updates
On Wednesday, Microsoft announced via blog entry that when the Windows 10 Creators Update drops later this spring, it'll bring a new level of control for Windows 10 updates.
Namely:
- You can choose exactly what time Windows 10 will install updates.
- You can pause Windows 10 updates entirely for up to three days with a new "snooze button." This feature was leaked back in December 2016, though that early version let you pause for up to 35 days.
- Microsoft is expanding the "Active Hours" feature in Windows 10, which lets you choose the hours during which you're using the device so a new upgrade won't interrupt your work.
"Prior to the Creators Update, Windows 10 made most of the decisions for you regarding when updates would be installed and didn't provide ways to tailor the timing to your specific needs," Microsoft said in its blog.
Microsoft added that these new features were designed to toe the line between giving users choice over when their machines update themselves, versus always keeping customers on the very latest software for security and usability reasons.
"As always, we believe in the value of keeping devices 'up to date,' and recommend that you choose the installation defaults that Windows 10 provides so you will always have the latest features, apps, and security updates," Microsoft said. "However, when you need more control over the update experience, you will have new choices."