Microsoft is releasing the update to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Experimental channels, with plans to make these changes more widely available later. The update aims to give users more control over when updates are installed and reduce the number of restarts required each month.
This update comes after a review by Microsoft 7,600 pieces Direct user feedback collected by Aria Hanson. Feedback revealed two main issues: updates arriving at inconvenient times for users and a lack of control over the installation schedule.
Repeatable pause controls and separate restart option
Windows Update now allows users to pause updates to the maximum 35 days Through a flyout calendar interface that enables them to choose a specific expiration date. The pause can be extended any number of times without any fixed overall limit. The current system limits how long updates can be postponed before the option is disabled.
The Power menu now differentiates between regular power options and update-related options. The restart and shutdown options can be used without triggering pending update installation. Option “update and restart” And “Update and Close” Updates will also appear when they are ready, giving users a clear choice rather than having updates automatically applied upon shutdown.
Clear driver updates and less monthly restarts
Driver updates in Windows Update now show the device type directly in the update title, such as Display, Audio, or Battery. Previously, multiple driver updates from the same manufacturer appeared under the same company name without specifying which hardware component each update affected.
Microsoft is reducing the number of restarts required each month by combining driver, .NET, and firmware updates with monthly cumulative updates. These updates will download in the background and wait for the planned installation and restart, which will coincide with the next Windows Quality Update or manually approved update. Users who want to install specific updates first can still manually trigger individual downloads and installs.
The changes are currently available to Windows Insiders on the Dev and Experimental channels. Microsoft has not announced any timeline for when these updates will be released to all Windows 11 users.
