Microsoft Rolls Out Windows Update Changes with Indefinite Pause Option

Microsoft is rolling out changes to Windows Update to users on its Dev and Experimental Windows Insider channels, including the ability to indefinitely delay updates up to 35 days at a time. The Verge reported that these changes address common user complaints about the platform, with a primary focus on making updates less disruptive.

Microsoft announced the upcoming changes to improve Windows 11 last month.

In a blog post published on Friday, Microsoft stated that users can extend the pause end date as many times as needed. The company added that there are no limits on how many times users can reset to another 35-day window. Microsoft explained that if users do not re-pause updates at the end of the 35-day period, updates will run as usual.

Driver updates now include more detailed titles with the device class they apply to, such as display, audio, or battery. Windows 11 now always has options in the power menu to restart or shut down without running updates. Additionally, the operating system provides the option to skip updates when setting up a new Windows device.

Microsoft is unifying the update experience to bunch together updates so users do not have to reboot as frequently. Updates will download in the background, then wait for a coordinated installation and restart.