MICROSOFT

Microsoft switches Windows 10 Insider rings to channels to focus on quality

On 15^th June 2020, Microsoft Principal Program Manager Lead Amanda Langowski announced some changes to the way they release new builds to all Windows Insiders.

Microsoft is transitioning and converting their current ring model, based on the frequency of builds, to a new channel model that pivots on the quality of builds and better supports parallel coding efforts. In addition to this change, Insiders will also find similar offering names and expectations across Windows and Office programs and soon Microsoft Edge and Microsoft Teams. Their goal is to not only make it clearer for existing Insiders to choose the experience that’s right for them, but also for new Insiders to pick the right channel as they join. The Insider community is very important to all and they are working to align how all the Insider programs work better together across Microsoft.

Focusing on quality of the experience

As Microsoft continues to evolve the way they release Windows 10 and the diversity of Insiders they serve is greater than ever, it is critical that Insiders have a flighting option that is tailored to their needs. Microsoft believe the best way to do this is to shift focus from frequency to quality. Insiders can pick a channel that represents the experience they want for their device based on the quality they are most comfortable with. Their intention is to ensure Insiders will continue to receive frequent updates no matter which channel they’ve chosen.