Microsoft plans to unveil the first preview of Windows Threshold at the end of September as a “Technical Preview.” There have been a lot of rumors and most of them turned out to be true, thanks to the Windows Technical Preview leak. However, another rumor, known as “Windows as a Service” (WaaS), could eventually be part of Windows 10.
Previously, we heard about “Windows 365”, which speculated Windows as a paid subscription to get new updates, but the rumor was shortly discredited. However, it’s not all said that Microsoft may turn updates and new features into a paid service.
With all that being said, it seems that Windows as a Service is a plan to change the way users get updates and new features. Beginning with Windows Threshold, the software maker is considering including an opt-in option that will allow a set of users to get new features that regular users won’t get.
The point of WaaS is to allow Microsoft to test, collect used telemetry data, and direct feedback from users to decide which new features are more likely to succeed in the operating system. Once the company is sure that a new feature is worthy, it will push it out to everyone. Though this may sound like something new, the company already does something similar with Bing, Azure, and Yammer.
The rumor followed recent information that said that in Windows Threshold, users would be required to agree to all the monthly updates after the Technical Preview releases. However, new information states that it will be optional. I also heard of an option that will be included in Windows to upgrade to the latest build without having to completely re-install the operating system.
If Microsoft executes “Windows as a Service” correctly, it could give the company an edge on what works and what doesn’t work, making Windows 10 a better operating system over time. However, the company going forward with this new approach doesn’t mean it will continue to do the same after releasing the final version of Windows 10.
Source ZDNet
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].