Microsoft is making the final version of the Windows 10 October 2020 Update available to the general public from now on. Just over a billion users will automatically receive the new update in the coming weeks and months.
Just like last year is Windows 10’s major fall update more of a Service Pack than a feature update. This means that Microsoft will fine-tune all new features in the Spring Update of Windows 10 for added stability.
That does not alter the fact that there are still some novelties in the Windows 10 October 2020 Update. The biggest visual change is the start menu. The new design removes the solid color behind all logos and adds extra transparency to the tiles. This makes it easier to find your apps in the start menu.
Another Service Pack
The second biggest change is the way Alt Tab works. Traditionally, you can hold down Alt Tab to see all windows in Windows 10. By holding down Alt and pressing Tab, you can switch between active windows. From now on, this also includes the Edge tabs (the new Chromium version that is now installed by default). Those who prefer not to have all those tabs in Edge in Alt Tab can still switch to the traditional experience.
Lovers of a high refresh rate no longer have to dive deep into the settings. You can now set the refresh rate of your choice directly in the advanced image settings.
You can get the full list of new features here consult.
The Windows 10 October 2020 Update has been available since today, but chances are that you will not be offered it directly via Windows Update. Microsoft is systematically rolling out its six-monthly major updates to counter important bugs in time. Take extra into account that working from home makes you extra dependent on your laptop with possibly limited support from the IT department.
Cautious rollout
John Cable, who is responsible for Windows Servicing and Delivery at Microsoft, said in a blogpost that they want to roll out the update very gradually. “We will be delivering the update systematically over the coming weeks to provide the right experience for everyone. Certain devices that are still experiencing compatibility problems will not be presented with the update until all problems have been resolved. ”
Certain devices that are still experiencing compatibility problems will not be presented with the update until all problems have been resolved.
For businesses, the Windows update that will be rolled out in the fall is the most interesting to upgrade. It offers extra stability compared to the feature update every spring and the update rhythm is different. Spring updates enjoy 18 months of support, while those in the fall enjoy 30 months of support. Important side note: this longer period only applies to Windows 10 Enterprise. Windows 10 Pro is 18 months by default regardless of which update.
If you would like to test the update today, you can go to the start menu and click on the gear (Settings). Then choose Update and security and see if the Features update to Windows 10, version 2009 is available. If you do not yet find this option, you will have to wait until the update is available for his or her device. Ambitious souls can always get the Windows 10 October 2020 Update download manually via Microsoft. It is up to you to decide whether you want to take that risk.
Tip: Microsoft finalizes Windows 10 October 2020 Update for testers
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