Microsoft is architecting a fundamental change to software update management on its Windows operating system. The company unveiled its “Windows Update orchestration platform” on May 27, a new system currently in private preview. This platform aims to integrate third-party application updates directly into the native Windows Update service.
This initiative seeks to resolve the long-standing problem of a fragmented update landscape. Many users and IT departments currently navigate numerous individual updaters. Chen stated that the goal is to create a cohesive and intelligent system. To solve this, she explained their vision: “we’re building a vision for a unified, intelligent update orchestration platform capable of supporting any update (apps, drivers, etc.) to be orchestrated alongside Windows updates.”
Such a shift could dramatically simplify software maintenance, promising fewer disruptions and a more consistent user experience by centralizing update management. The current disparate system often results in what Chen described as a “Updates across the Windows ecosystem can feel like a fragmented experience.” leading to issues like sudden CPU and bandwidth spikes and difficulties in maintaining software compliance.
A New Framework for Updates
The Windows Update orchestration platform will equip developers with Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and PowerShell commands. These tools will allow them to onboard their software into the centralized system. According to Microsoft’s announcement, developers will register their applications as an “update provider.”
This process involves supplying the orchestrator with crucial details. These details include the path to an executable for update scanning, the update’s title and version, and its packaging type. The system will support MSIX, APPX, and custom Win32 applications. Developers also provide installation deadlines for managed devices and specify if a system restart is necessary.
Once an application is integrated, the orchestrator assumes responsibility for scheduling and execution. It will intelligently manage the download and installation of updates, coordinating across all participating products. This management includes deferring updates based on user activity, system performance, and power status.
The system even considers “sustainable times to update” to minimize energy consumption. Users will also benefit from native Windows Update notifications. A consolidated update history will be accessible directly within the Windows Settings panel.
Streamlining for Developers and Users
Microsoft highlights several advantages for developers adopting the new platform. Beyond eco-efficient scheduling and simplified notifications, they gain built-in support for admin policy management concerning deadlines.
This removes the need for developers to build these features themselves. Streamlined troubleshooting via a single set of logs for all updates is another key benefit. Furthermore, products integrated into the orchestrator will automatically receive future platform enhancements.
Windows currently offers multiple official update channels like the Microsoft Store and Windows Package Manager (WinGet), yet many applications, particularly in business, use independent updaters.
For end-users and IT professionals, the most significant impact will be convenience and potentially improved security. The need to manually check individual programs or navigate multiple update tools could diminish.
This centralized approach aims for more consistent and prompt application of critical third-party software patches. While automated application update tools already exist, Microsoft’s direct integration could offer a smoother, more universally adopted solution if developer buy-in is widespread.
Microsoft is essentially trying to tempt bigger developers like Google and Adobe to use Windows Update instead of their own updaters, with an initial focus on business apps. A potential motivation is to support developers who don’t use the Microsoft Store, offloading their update mechanism requirements.
Broader Update Modernization and Perspectives
This initiative for third-party apps aligns with Microsoft’s wider efforts to refine the Windows update experience. For instance, the company has been rolling out “hotpatching” for Windows 11 Enterprise.
This technology applies security updates without requiring immediate system reboots. The first such hotpatch for generally available Windows 11 Enterprise 24H2 systems was rolled out in mid-May.
However, hotpatching has specific prerequisites, including Azure AD-joined devices and Microsoft Intune management, and still involves quarterly full cumulative updates.
The Windows Update orchestration platform is in its early stages. Microsoft is inviting developers to join the private preview via email. The ultimate success of this ambitious project will depend on broad adoption by the vast Windows application developer ecosystem.
If embraced, it could fundamentally change software maintenance on Windows, making the process less intrusive and more secure. However, details regarding wider availability or complexities in integrating diverse application types will become clearer as the preview progresses.
Related: How to Block, Install and Uninstall the Microsoft Store
While the Microsoft Store offers a range of applications and services, certain scenarios may necessitate its removal. For instance, users seeking a more streamlined or customized system might find the Store’s functions redundant. Others may encounter issues with the Store that can only be resolved through uninstallation. In our other guide, we show you how to uninstall, block and reinstall the Microsoft Store using PowerShell, Group Policy, the Windows Registry and appx package files.
Related: How to Turn off Automatic Updates in Windows 11 or Windows 10
Automatic updates in Windows 11 / Windows 10 are a feature that allows your PC to download and install the latest security patches, bug fixes, and feature enhancements from Microsoft. Sometimes they can cause problems such as blue screen errors, missing drivers, incompatible applications, or server configuration issues. These problems can affect your device’s performance, stability, or functionality. In our other guide, we show you how to disable automatic updates in Windows completely, pausing them for up to 35 days, setting your Wi-Fi as a metered connection, or disabling the Windows Update service.
