Microsoft confirms “Windows configuration updates” for Windows 11

Microsoft has confirmed it has begun testing “Windows configuration updates” for Windows 11 in the production channel. These updates bring non-security updates, fixes, and improvements, such as search bar support in Task Manager or an “End Task” button for the taskbar” to devices through various servicing technologies.

Microsoft is testing a new feature called “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” in Windows 11 22H2 or later. You’ll receive some features when the feature is enabled as part of a new “Windows configuration updates” update. This option ensures users skip the A/B testing and get new features as early as possible.

To enable this feature, navigate to Start > Settings > Windows Update and toggle” Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.” This ensures that your device will receive priority for future updates while still getting regular security updates. Once done, you’ll notice configuration updates on Windows Update’s history page.

This was confirmed in a support document published by the company earlier this month and noticed by Windows Latest this week.

For those unaware, you can view the history of installed updates by navigating to Start > Settings > Windows Update > Update History. To learn about specific configuration changes, expand the “Other updates” section and click the “Learn more” link to open Microsoft’s support bulletins.

• Microsoft will respect your Windows Update settings and won’t restart your device without a notification. This means the company will respect your active hours.
• You’ll continue to receive security updates whether you have the feature enabled or disabled.
• Enabling the feature means your device will require more reboots per month, as you’ll get more fixes and improvements requiring reboots.

As you’re probably aware, Microsoft has been using Controlled Feature Rollouts (CFR) technology to enable features for Windows 11 configurations gradually. As each feature is validated, it will be introduced to new devices and eventually enabled by default in a later monthly security update.

In the document, Microsoft noted that it is committed to periodically delivering new improvements and experiences to the latest in-market version of Windows 11 through the existing Windows monthly update process.

The company uses a phased and measured approach, which may involve CFR technology, as seen in the Windows Insider Program and Microsoft Edge.