Windows 10 optional updates to resume in July

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Microsoft paused optional cumulative updates for Windows 10 in March but is bringing them back next month.

Windows Update Insider
Windows Update Insider (Image credit: Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Optional cumulative updates for Windows 10 will return next month.
  • Microsoft paused the optional updates for a few months due to the current global pandemic.
  • The optional releases will be available for Windows 10 and Windows Server 1809 and later.

Microsoft announced this week that optional cumulative updates for Windows 10 will return in July 2020 (via ZDNet). The optional updates were paused months ago due to the current global health crisis. Microsoft will release the optional updates to Windows 10 and Windows Server version 1809 and later.

In addition to unpausing the optional updates, Microsoft made several changes to help people stay up to date. First these optional releases will now be referred to as "Preview" releases. They will be available for Windows 10 and Windows Server version 1809 and later. The new naming scheme will appear in the Windows Update section of Settings.

To simplify the update process, Microsoft will only roll out these "Preview" releases in the "C" week of each month, meaning the third week. Additionally, Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) users won't see the "Preview" releases for Windows 10 or Windows Server within the (WSUS) channel.

Lastly, people in the Windows Insider Program or Windows Insider Program for Business will see in-development versions of the "Preview" releases in the second week of each month.

Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.