Microsoft promised to improve the Windows 10 update system by giving users control over when their devices get updated to the latest version. The new system allows users to delay updates for up to 35 days. However, the Windows maker had also said that the company will force update machines when their currently running OS version is going to meet its end of support deadline.
For Windows 10 April 2018 Update, that deadline falls on November 12. Microsoft had earlier noted that it will "begin updating devices running the April 2018 Update and earlier versions of Windows 10 in late June 2019 to help ensure that we keep these devices in a serviced, secure state."
A new update posted last night confirms that the process to update version 1803 machines to the latest Windows 10 May 2019 Update has indeed begun. Microsoft writes (emphasis is ours):
Windows 10, version 1903 is available for any user who manually selects “Check for updates” via Windows Update for all devices that do not have a safeguard hold. If you are not offered the update, please check below for any known issues that may affect your device. The recommended servicing status is Semi-Annual Channel.
We are now beginning to build and train the machine learning (ML) based rollout process to update devices running the April 2018 Update, and earlier versions of Windows 10, to ensure we can continue to service these devices and provide the latest updates, security updates and improvements.
It remains unclear how exactly this process will work: will users be notified to update their devices; will they be given a few days' warning to do so before the forced installation begins, or if users will be taken by surprise like in the past. We have written to Microsoft for a clarification on this process and will update this space when we hear back.
In the meantime, if you are running Windows 10 April 2018 Update (version 1803), it is probably more prudent to install the latest version 1903 yourself to avoid any last minute surprises.
? [Windows Release Health Update – New Message] We are beginning to train the machine learning based rollout process to update devices running the April 2018 Update, and earlier versions of Windows 10. Read more here: https://t.co/NHEQuEjsVX.
— Windows Update (@WindowsUpdate) June 18, 2019
