Версия windows 10 20h2 дата выхода

20 октября 2020 года Microsoft выпустила обновление для Windows 10 — October 2020 Update, известное как 20H2 build 19042. Оно принесло новые возможности и улучшения работы текущих функций.

Windows 10 20H2 вышло в виде пакета обновлений для Windows 10 May 2020 Update (известной как 20H1) и не внесло в операционную систему кардинальных изменений.

В этой статье мы собрали все возможности апдейта в один удобный список, который регулярно обновляем. Эта функциональность была выявлена ещё в сборках для программы предварительного тестирования Insider Preview.

Также расскажем, как скачать 20H2 с официального сайта Microsoft. Никаких торрентов, только официальные сборки от разработчиков.

Встроенный браузер Microsoft Edge

В январе 2020 года Microsoft выпустила кардинально новый браузер Edge на основе движка Chromium, который пользователи встретили очень тепло. Но по умолчанию браузер не был включён в Windows 10, приходилось скачивать и устанавливать его дополнительно.

Начиная с 20H2 новый Edge включён в состав операционной системы по умолчанию, заменив собой медленный и неудобный браузер предыдущего поколения.

У него лучше совместимость, намного выше производительность, есть встроенный переводчик, продвинутые настройки безопасности, возможность устанавливать расширения и темы для браузера Chrome.

Переключение между вкладками доступно при помощи сочетания клавиш Alt + Tab, как в других приложениях. Можно использовать аппаратное ускорение, ограничивать список последних вкладок до пяти или трёх вместо всех.

У браузера даже есть версии для Mac, iOS и Android.

Сочетание клавиш ALT+TAB теперь также отображает открытые вкладки Microsoft Edge. Это можно настроить в приложении «Параметры», выбрав вариант отображения в разделе «Многозадачность»: показывать все окна и вкладки браузера, 5 или 3 последних вкладки и только открытые окна.

В предыдущих версиях Windows 10 открытые в Edge вкладки вообще не отображались в этом интерфейсе.

Попробовать новый Edge нужно обязательно. Он работает на Chromium — той же технологии, что и Google Chrome, Opera и Яндекс Браузер. Если вам нравится Chrome, вы, вероятно, захотите перейти на новый браузер Edge.

Новый дизайн меню Пуск

Меню «Пуск» получило обновлённый внешний вид. Microsoft изменила фоновый цвет плиток, чтобы он совпадал с графической темой операционной системы.

Раньше плитки многих приложений имели разные фоновые цвета, которые иногда были очень контрастны к теме операционной системы и не зависели от неё. Теперь плитки получили единообразный внешний вид в стиле Fluent Design и стали занимать меньше места.

В дополнение к изменению цвета, плитки стали полупрозрачны. Это позволяет обоям рабочего стола и содержимому приложений за меню «Пуск» размываться через интерфейс плитки. Это небольшое изменение дизайна, но оно, как мне кажется, делает внешний вид меню «Пуск» современным.

Новый дизайн подходит под тёмный и светлый варианты графического интерфейса, который настраивается в приложении «Параметры».

Закрепление иконок в панели задач

Разработчики внесли изменения в работу панели задач Windows 10 20H2. Нововведения применяется только к новым учётным записям Windows и чистым установкам операционной системы, не затрагивая существующие аккаунты и случаи обновления с предыдущих версий Windows 10.

Обладатели новых аккаунтов могут в ответ на некоторые действия увидеть закрепление иконок в панели задач.

Microsoft показала, как прикрепляется к панели задач иконка приложения «Ваш телефон», если связать его с Android-смартфоном. Также было показано, как закрепляется иконка приложения Xbox, если настроить аккаунт Xbox Live в Windows.

Если закреплять на панели задач сайты через браузер Edge, можно увидеть все открытые сейчас в браузере сайты в виде миниатюр, если кликнуть по сайту в панели.

Изменения в насnройках Windows 10 20H2

С каждым новым обновлением, Microsoft переносит часть настроек из устаревшей панели управления в современное приложение «Параметры» Windows 10.

Было доработано управление приложениями по умолчанию. Microsoft добавила в Windows 10 20H2 поиск по трём параметрам на странице выбора приложений:

1. По типу файлов.
2. По протоколу.
3. По приложению.

Настройка находится в Параметры → Приложения → Приложения по умолчанию. Прокрутите окно вниз и увидите ссылки:

Аналогично настраиваются программы по умолчанию для протоколов и по приложению.

Прежде можно было лишь прокручивать бесконечный список из тысяч расширений файлов для поиска нужного.

Другая новая функция расположена в разделе Система → Память, куда Microsoft добавила рекомендации по очистке системы. Тут показывается, что можно удалить для освобождения дискового пространства.

Рекомендации взяты на основе инструмента очистки и могут предложить удалить прошлые версии Windows, временные, крупные и неиспользуемые файлы. Удобный способ удалить лишнее на диске без установки вспомогательных утилит.

Если в прошлых версиях Windows вы использовали сочетание клавиш Win+Pause для запуска панели управления, то теперь это сочетание открывает страницу «О системе» в приложении «Параметры». Панель управления также автоматически перенаправляет на эту страницу, что немного усложняет управление продвинутыми настройками.

В версии Windows 10 May 2020 был представлен новый планшетный режим. Когда от устройства 2 в 1 отключается клавиатура, система показывает уведомление с возможностью активировать планшетный режим. В 20H2 это происходит автоматически.

Когда пользователь меняет положение с ноутбука на планшет, Windows 10 автоматически настраивает интерфейс рабочего стола, чтобы он стал более удобным для управления касанием. Панель поиска на панели задач сворачивается, закрепленные и запущенные приложения распределяются на большее расстояние, значок сенсорной клавиатуры появится на панели задач, а в проводнике появятся более крупные хитбоксы.

Если вы предпочитаете старый способ активации планшетного режима вручную, можно поменять настройку в разделе Параметры → Система → Планшет. Здесь есть параметр «Когда я использую это устройство в качестве планшета».

Установите значение на «Запрашивать разрешение перед переключением режимов». Если вы не пользуетесь планшетным режимом, можно установить значение «Не переключаться в режим планшета».

В разделе Параметры → Система → О программе Microsoft добавила возможность копирования характеристик устройства и характеристик Windows. Теперь можно копировать всю информацию об устройстве и операционной системе в буфер обмена одним щелчком мыши, что удобно, если вы пытаетесь отправить в службу поддержки сведения о своем устройстве.

Другое связанное с дисплеями изменение представляет собой возможность менять частоту обновления. Откройте Параметры → Система → Дисплей → Дополнительные параметры дисплея для изменения частоты обновления выбранного монитора.

В графических настройках можно указать видеокарту по умолчанию и для определённых задач. Откройте Параметры → Система → Дисплей → Настройки графики → Игры → Графические настройки.

Новый дизайн уведомлений

В версии 20H2 немного обновили всплывающие уведомления. Они получили обновлённый дизайн с кнопкой закрытия «X»:

Отклонять уведомления стало удобно. Посмотреть их всегда можно позже в центре уведомлений.

Выше перечислены все заметные изменения, которые появятся в обновлении Windows 10 October 2020 Update. Ниже перечислены второстепенные.

Прочие изменения и исправления

В Windows 10 20H2 были найдены и исправлены следующие проблемы:

• Сообщения об ошибках отображались на английском языке США (en-US), а не на выбранном пользователем.
• Поправлено всплывающее уведомление, которое появляется при перезагрузке после обновления с Windows 10 версии 2004.
• Пропадали неанглийские строки в меню Пуск, что влияло на текст плиток.
• Пользователи не могли использовать функцию общего доступа в Microsoft Office при включении условного доступа.
• Сторонние приложения больше не могут открывать скрытые вкладки в браузере.
• Исправлена проблема в режиме Microsoft Edge IE, возникающая при открытии нескольких документов с сайта SharePoint и при просмотре с использованием якорных ссылок.
• Решена проблема со вставкой смешанного содержимого изображений и текста из Microsoft Word в Internet Explorer.
• Браузеры Microsoft теперь корректно обходят прокси-серверы.
• Исправлена проблема в службе push-уведомлений Windows (WNS), которая не позволяла выбрать интерфейс виртуальной частной сети (VPN) для исходящих подключений. В результате терялась связь со службой WNS при использовании принудительного туннелирования.
• При определённых сценариях в Microsoft Excel переставала работать Лупа.
• Пользователи не могли установить некоторые приложения .msi. из-за групповой политики, которая перенаправляла папку AppData в сетевую папку.
• Контент в 4K (HDR) мог отображаться темнее, чем ожидалось.
• Страница настроек приложений по умолчанию в «Параметры» могла неожиданно закрываться.
• Устранена проблема, из-за которой все открытые приложения универсальной платформы Windows (UWP) неожиданно закрывались. Это происходило, когда установщик вызывает диспетчер для перезапуска «Проводника» (explorer.exe).
• Приложения Windows 8.1 не могли проецироваться на дополнительный дисплей при использовании StartProjectingAsync API.
• Функции семейной безопасности, такие как ограничение по времени и отчёты об активности, не работали на устройствах ARM64.
• Исправлена проблема с предварительным просмотром файлов .msg в «Проводнике» при установленном Microsoft Outlook x64.
• Когда Windows выходила из спящего режима и включала гарнитуру Bluetooth, могла появляться ошибка остановки KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE (139).
• Некоторые утилиты сброса драйвера дисплея не могли правильно переустановить тот же драйвер в системе.
• Исправлена проблема надёжности в WDF01000.sys.
• Устранили утечку памяти, когда приложение вызывает функцию CryptCATAdminCalcHashFromFileHandle ().
• Некоторые ПК не могли автоматически переходить в спящий режим из-за Microsoft Defender.
• На некоторых ПК не запускалось управление угрозами и уязвимостями Microsoft Defender ATP.
• Microsoft Defender ATP теперь корректно применяет исключения файлов. Ранее ошибка приводила к проблемам совместимости приложений.
• Некоторые приложения не могли печатать на сетевых принтерах.
• После перезагрузки принтер мог становиться скрытым устройством в диспетчере устройств.
• Консоль управления печатью отображала ошибки сценария при включении опции расширенного просмотра.
• Исправлена ​​проблема, приводившая к сбою печати в определённых сценариях.
• Исправлена проблема, которая могла препятствовать доступу Windows 10 к интернету при использовании модема LTE беспроводной глобальной сети (WWAN). При этом индикатор состояния сетевого подключения в области уведомлений мог указывать на корректное подключение.
• Исправлена проблема, которая могла препятствовать подключению к интернету на некоторых сотовых модемах после обновления до Windows 10 версии 2004.
• Приложения телефонии могли терять первые четыре цифры.
• Процесс удалённого помощника Microsoft (msra.exe) переставал работать и выдавал ошибку 0xc0000005 или 0xc0000409.
• Режим фокусировки внимания Focus Assist больше не отображае сводку пропущенных уведомлений, когда отключён.

Как скачать Windows 10 20H2 с официального сайта

Три актуальных способа как сделать это описаны в статье «Как скачать и установить Windows 10 October 2020 Update (20H2)».

Когда обновление Windows 10 20H2 выйдет, оно станет доступно в центре обновлений операционной системы. Но если вы хотите протестировать его раньше остальных, нужно быть зарегистрированным участником программы Windows Insider на канале обновления Beta (Beta Channel).

Участником программы может стать любой человек, который готов пожертвовать стабильностью работы системы ради тестирования её новых возможностей.

Чтобы скачать официальный ISO-образ Windows 10 версии 20H2:

1. Перейдите по ссылке Windows Insider Preview Downloads на сайт Microsoft.
2. Авторизуйтесь используя учётные данные инсайдерской программы.
3. Пролистайте страницу до раздела Select edition, выберите самый свежий билд Windows 10 Insider Preview на канале Beta Channel и нажмите Confirm.
4. Далее выберите русский язык (или любой другой) и нажмите кнопку Confirm.
5. Кликните на загружаемую версию 20H2 — 32-bit Download или 64-bit Download, для старта загрузки:

Начнётся загрузка. Дождитесь окончания скачивания выбранного ISO-образа Windows 10 версии 20H2 и установите его.

Ссылки для скачивания формируются на сутки, поэтому выкладывать прямые ссылки на загрузку 20H2 не имеет смысла — они перестают работать через 24 часа.

Windows 10 is a series of operating systems developed by Microsoft. Microsoft described Windows 10 as an «operating system as a service» that would receive ongoing updates to its features and functionality, augmented with the ability for enterprise environments to receive non-critical updates at a slower pace or use long-term support milestones that will only receive critical updates, such as security patches, over their five-year lifespan of mainstream support. It was first released in July 2015.

Channels

Windows 10 Insider Preview builds are delivered to Insiders in three different channels (previously «rings»).^[1] Insiders in the Dev Channel (previously Fast Ring) receive updates prior to those in the Beta Channel (previously Slow Ring), but might experience more bugs and other issues.^[2][3] Insiders in the Release Preview Channel (previously Release Preview Ring) do not receive updates until the version is almost available to the public, but are comparatively more stable.^[4]

Windows 10 versions

PC version history

Mainstream builds of Windows 10 are labeled «YYMM», with YY representing the two-digit year and MM representing the month of planned release (for example, version 1507 refers to builds which initially released in July 2015). Starting with version 20H2, Windows 10 release nomenclature changed from the year and month pattern to a year and half-year pattern (YYH1, YYH2).^[5]

Version 1507 (original release)

Version 1511 (November Update)

The second stable build of Windows 10 is version 1511 (build number 10586), known as the November Update. It was codenamed «Threshold 2» (TH2) during development. This version was distributed via Windows Update on November 12, 2015. It contains various improvements to the operating system, its user interface, bundled services, as well as the introduction of Skype-based universal messaging apps, and the Windows Store for Business and Windows Update for Business features.^[6][7][8][9]

On November 21, 2015, the November Update was temporarily pulled from public distribution.^[10][11] The upgrade was re-instated on November 24, 2015, with Microsoft stating that the removal was due to a bug that caused privacy and data collection settings to be reset to defaults when installing the upgrade.^[12]

Version 1607 (Anniversary Update)

The third stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1607, known as the Anniversary Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 1» (RS1) during development. This version was released on August 2, 2016, a little over one year after the first stable release of Windows 10.^{[13][14][15][16]} The Anniversary Update was originally thought to have been set aside for two feature updates. While both were originally to be released in 2016, the second was moved into 2017 so that it would be released in concert with that year’s wave of Microsoft first-party devices.^[17][18][14]

The Anniversary Update introduces new features such as the Windows Ink platform, which eases the ability to add stylus input support to Universal Windows Platform apps and provides a new «Ink Workspace» area with links to pen-oriented apps and features,^[19][14] enhancements to Cortana’s proactive functionality,^[20] a dark user interface theme mode, a new version of Skype designed to work with the Universal Windows Platform, improvements to Universal Windows Platform intended for video games,^[13] and offline scanning using Windows Defender.^[21] The Anniversary Update also supports Windows Subsystem for Linux, a new component that provides an environment for running Linux-compatible binary software in an Ubuntu-based user mode environment.^[22]

On new installations of Windows 10 on systems with Secure Boot enabled, all kernel-mode drivers issued after July 29, 2015 must be digitally signed with an Extended Validation Certificate issued by Microsoft.^[23]

This version is the basis for «LTSB 2016», the first upgrade to the LTSB since Windows 10’s release. The first LTSB release, based on RTM (version 1507), has been retroactively named «LTSB 2015».

Version 1703 (Creators Update)

The fourth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1703, known as the Creators Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 2» (RS2) during development. This version was announced on October 26, 2016,^[24][25] and was released for general availability on April 11, 2017,^[26][27] and for manual installation via Windows 10 Upgrade Assistant and Media Creation Tool tools on April 5, 2017.^[28] This update primarily focuses on content creation, productivity, and gaming features—with a particular focus on virtual and augmented reality (including HoloLens and virtual reality headsets) and on aiding the generation of three-dimensional content.

It supports a new virtual reality workspace designed for use with headsets; Microsoft announced that several OEMs planned to release VR headsets designed for use with the Creators Update.^[27][26][29]

Controls for the Game Bar and Game DVR feature have moved to the Settings app, while a new «Game Mode» option allows resources to be prioritized towards games.^[30] Integration with Microsoft acquisition Mixer (formerly Beam)^[31] was added for live streaming.^[30] The themes manager moved to Settings app, and custom accent colors are now possible.^[30] The new app Paint 3D allows users to produce artwork using 3D models; the app is designed to make 3D creation more accessible to mainstream users.^[32]

Windows 10’s privacy settings have more detailed explanations of data that the operating system may collect. Additionally, the «enhanced» level of telemetry collection was removed.^[30] Windows Update notifications may now be «snoozed» for a period of time, the «active hours» during which Windows will not try to install updates may now extend up to 18 hours in length, and updates may be paused for up to seven days.^[30] Windows Defender has been replaced by the universal app Windows Defender Security Center.^[30] Devices may optionally be configured to prevent use of software from outside of Microsoft Store, or warn before installation of apps from outside of Microsoft Store.^[33] «Dynamic Lock» allows a device to automatically lock if it is outside of the proximity of a designated Bluetooth device, such as a smartphone.^[34] A «Night Light» feature was added, which allows the user to change the color temperature of the display to the red part of the spectrum at specific times of day (similarly to the third-party software f.lux).^[35]

Version 1709 (Fall Creators Update)

The fifth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1709, known as the Fall Creators Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 3» (RS3) during development. This version was released on October 17, 2017.^[36][37][38] Version 1709 introduces a new feature known as «My People», where shortcuts to «important» contacts can be displayed on the taskbar. Notifications involving these contacts appear above their respective pictures, and users can communicate with the contact via either Skype, e-mail, or text messaging (integrating with Android and Windows 10 Mobile devices). Support for additional services, including Xbox, Skype for Business, and third-party integration, are to be added in the future. Files can also be dragged directly to the contact’s picture to share them.^[39] My People was originally announced for Creators Update, but was ultimately held over to the next release,^[40][41] and made its first public appearance in Build 16184 in late April 2017.^[37] A new «Files-on-Demand» feature for OneDrive serves as a partial replacement for the previous «placeholders» function.^[42]

It also introduces a new security feature known as «controlled folder access», which can restrict the applications allowed to access specific folders. This feature is designed mainly to defend against file-encrypting ransomware.^[43]

Version 1803 (April 2018 Update)

The sixth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1803, known as the April 2018 Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 4» (RS4) during development. This version was released as a manual download on April 30, 2018, with a broad rollout on May 8, 2018.^[44][45] This update was originally meant to be released on April 10, but was delayed because of a bug which could increase chances of a «Blue Screen of Death» (Stop error).^[46]

The most significant feature of this build is Timeline, which is displayed within Task View. It allows users to view a list of recently-used documents and websites from supported applications («activities»). When users consent to Microsoft data collection via Microsoft Graph, activities can also be synchronized from supported Android and iOS devices.^{[47][48][49][42]}

Version 1809 (October 2018 Update)

The seventh stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1809, known as the October 2018 Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 5» (RS5) during development. This version was released on October 2, 2018.^[50] Highlighted features on this build include updates to the clipboard function (including support for clipboard history and syncing with other devices), SwiftKey virtual keyboard, Snip & Sketch, and File Explorer supporting the dark color scheme mode.^[51]

On October 6, 2018, the build was pulled by Microsoft following isolated reports of the update process deleting files from user directories.^[52] It was re-released to Windows Insider channel on October 9, with Microsoft citing a bug in OneDrive’s Known Folder Redirection function as the culprit.^[53][54]

On November 13, 2018, Microsoft resumed the rollout of 1809 for a small percentage of users.^[55][56]

The long term servicing release, Windows 10 Enterprise 2019 LTSC, is based on this version and is equivalent in terms of features.^[57]

Version 1903 (May 2019 Update)

The eighth stable build of Windows 10, version 1903, codenamed «19H1«, was released for general availability on May 21, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 8, 2019.^[58] Because of new practices introduced after the problems affecting the 1809 update, Microsoft used an intentionally slower Windows Update rollout process.^[59][60][61]

New features in the update include a redesigned search tool—separated from Cortana and oriented towards textual queries, a new «Light» theme (set as default on Windows 10 Home) using a white-colored taskbar with dark icons, the addition of symbols and kaomoji to the emoji input menu, the ability to «pause» system updates, automated «Recommended troubleshooting», integration with Google Chrome on Timeline via an extension, support for SMS-based authentication on accounts linked to Microsoft accounts, and the ability to run Windows desktop applications within the Windows Mixed Reality environment (previously restricted to universal apps and SteamVR only). A new feature on Pro, Education, and Enterprise known as Windows Sandbox allows users to run applications within a secured Hyper-V environment.^[62][63]

A revamped version of Game Bar was released alongside 1903, which redesigns it into a larger overlay with a performance display, Xbox friends list and social functionality, and audio and streaming settings.^[64]

Version 1909 (November 2019 Update)

The ninth stable build of Windows 10, version 1909, codenamed «19H2«, was released to the public on November 12, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since August 26, 2019.^[65] Unlike previous updates, this one was released as a minor service update without major new features.^[66]

Version 2004 (May 2020 Update)

The tenth stable build of Windows 10, version 2004, codenamed «20H1«, was released to the public on May 27, 2020 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 16, 2020.^[67] New features included faster and easier access to Bluetooth settings and pairing, improved Kaomojis, renamable virtual desktops, DirectX12 Ultimate, a chat-based UI for Cortana, greater integration with Android phones on the Your Phone app, Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL 2), and WSL 2 version includes a custom Linux kernel, unlike older WSL, the ability to use Windows Hello without the need for a password, improved Windows Search with integration with File Explorer, a cloud download option to reset Windows, accessibility improvements, and the ability to view disk drive type and discrete graphics card temperatures in Task Manager.^[68][69]

Version 20H2 (October 2020 Update)

The eleventh stable build of Windows 10, version 20H2, was released to the public on October 20, 2020 after being on the Beta Channel since June 16, 2020.^[70] New features include new theme-aware tiles in the Start Menu, new features and improvements to Microsoft Edge (such as a price comparison tool, Alt+Tab ↹ integration for tab switching, and easy access to pinned tabs), a new out-of-box experience with more personalization for the taskbar, notifications improvements, improvements to tablet mode, improvements to Modern Device Management, and the move of the System tab in Control Panel to the About page in Settings. This is the first version of Windows 10 to include the new Chromium-based Edge browser by default.^[71][72][73]

Version 21H1 (May 2021 Update)

The Windows 10 May 2021 Update^[74] (codenamed «21H1»^[75]) is the twelfth stable build for Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.19043. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to Beta Channel on February 17, 2021.^[76] The update began rolling out on May 18, 2021.^[77] Notable changes in the May 2021 Update include:^[78]

• Added multi-camera support for Windows Hello
• New «News and Interests» feature on the taskbar
• Performance improvements to Windows Defender Application Guard and WMI Group Policy Service

The update reached end of service after the release of build 19043.2364 on December 13, 2022.^[79][80]

Version 21H2 (November 2021 Update)

The Windows 10 November 2021 Update^[146] (codenamed «21H2»^[147]) is the twelfth major update to Windows 10 as the cumulative update to the May 2021 Update. It carries the build number 10.0.19044. The first preview was released on July 15, 2021 to Insiders who opted in to Release Preview Channel that failed to meet minimum system requirements for Windows 11.^[148][149] The update began rolling out on November 16, 2021. Notable changes in the November 2021 Update include:^[147][150]

• GPU compute support in the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) and Azure IoT Edge for Linux on Windows (EFLOW) deployments
• New simplified passwordless deployment models for Windows Hello for Business
• Support for WPA3 Hash-to-Element (H2E) standards

Version 22H2 (2022 Update)

The Windows 10 2022 Update^[172] (codenamed «22H2»^[173]) is the thirteenth and current major update to Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.19045. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to the Release Preview Channel on July 28, 2022.^[173] The update began rolling out on October 18, 2022.^[172]

Fast Ring / Dev Channel

Fast Ring

On December 16, 2019, Microsoft announced that Windows Insiders in the Fast Ring will receive builds directly from the rs_prerelease branch, which are not matched to a specific Windows 10 release. The first build released under the new strategy, build 19536, was made available to Insiders on the same day.^[175]

The mn_release branch was available from May 13, 2020 to June 17, 2020.^[176][177] The branch was mandatory for Insiders in the Fast Ring.^[177]

Dev Channel

As of June 15, 2020, Microsoft has introduced the «channels» model to its Windows Insider Program, succeeding its «ring» model.^[200] All future builds starting from build 10.0.20150, therefore, would be released to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.^[176]

The fe_release branch was available from October 29, 2020 to January 6, 2021.^[201][202] The branch was mandatory for Insiders until December 10. Afterward, Insiders could choose to move back to the rs_prerelease branch.^[203]

The co_release branch was available from April 5 to June 14, 2021.^[204] The branch was mandatory for Insiders.

As of June 28, 2021, the Dev Channel has transitioned to Windows 11.^[205]

Mobile version history

See also

• Windows Server 2016 version history
• Windows Server 2019 version history
• Windows Phone version history
• Windows 10 Mobile version history
• Xbox OS version history
• Windows 11 version history

References

External links

• Windows release health
• Flight Hub

Windows 10 is a series of operating systems developed by Microsoft. Microsoft described Windows 10 as an «operating system as a service» that would receive ongoing updates to its features and functionality, augmented with the ability for enterprise environments to receive non-critical updates at a slower pace or use long-term support milestones that will only receive critical updates, such as security patches, over their five-year lifespan of mainstream support. It was first released in July 2015.

Channels

Windows 10 Insider Preview builds are delivered to Insiders in three different channels (previously «rings»).^[1] Insiders in the Dev Channel (previously Fast Ring) receive updates prior to those in the Beta Channel (previously Slow Ring), but might experience more bugs and other issues.^[2][3] Insiders in the Release Preview Channel (previously Release Preview Ring) do not receive updates until the version is almost available to the public, but are comparatively more stable.^[4]

Windows 10 versions

PC version history

Mainstream builds of Windows 10 are labeled «YYMM», with YY representing the two-digit year and MM representing the month of planned release (for example, version 1507 refers to builds which initially released in July 2015). Starting with version 20H2, Windows 10 release nomenclature changed from the year and month pattern to a year and half-year pattern (YYH1, YYH2).^[5]

Version 1507 (original release)

Version 1511 (November Update)

The second stable build of Windows 10 is version 1511 (build number 10586), known as the November Update. It was codenamed «Threshold 2» (TH2) during development. This version was distributed via Windows Update on November 12, 2015. It contains various improvements to the operating system, its user interface, bundled services, as well as the introduction of Skype-based universal messaging apps, and the Windows Store for Business and Windows Update for Business features.^[6][7][8][9]

On November 21, 2015, the November Update was temporarily pulled from public distribution.^[10][11] The upgrade was re-instated on November 24, 2015, with Microsoft stating that the removal was due to a bug that caused privacy and data collection settings to be reset to defaults when installing the upgrade.^[12]

Version 1607 (Anniversary Update)

The third stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1607, known as the Anniversary Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 1» (RS1) during development. This version was released on August 2, 2016, a little over one year after the first stable release of Windows 10.^{[13][14][15][16]} The Anniversary Update was originally thought to have been set aside for two feature updates. While both were originally to be released in 2016, the second was moved into 2017 so that it would be released in concert with that year’s wave of Microsoft first-party devices.^[17][18][14]

The Anniversary Update introduces new features such as the Windows Ink platform, which eases the ability to add stylus input support to Universal Windows Platform apps and provides a new «Ink Workspace» area with links to pen-oriented apps and features,^[19][14] enhancements to Cortana’s proactive functionality,^[20] a dark user interface theme mode, a new version of Skype designed to work with the Universal Windows Platform, improvements to Universal Windows Platform intended for video games,^[13] and offline scanning using Windows Defender.^[21] The Anniversary Update also supports Windows Subsystem for Linux, a new component that provides an environment for running Linux-compatible binary software in an Ubuntu-based user mode environment.^[22]

On new installations of Windows 10 on systems with Secure Boot enabled, all kernel-mode drivers issued after July 29, 2015 must be digitally signed with an Extended Validation Certificate issued by Microsoft.^[23]

This version is the basis for «LTSB 2016», the first upgrade to the LTSB since Windows 10’s release. The first LTSB release, based on RTM (version 1507), has been retroactively named «LTSB 2015».

Version 1703 (Creators Update)

The fourth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1703, known as the Creators Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 2» (RS2) during development. This version was announced on October 26, 2016,^[24][25] and was released for general availability on April 11, 2017,^[26][27] and for manual installation via Windows 10 Upgrade Assistant and Media Creation Tool tools on April 5, 2017.^[28] This update primarily focuses on content creation, productivity, and gaming features—with a particular focus on virtual and augmented reality (including HoloLens and virtual reality headsets) and on aiding the generation of three-dimensional content.

It supports a new virtual reality workspace designed for use with headsets; Microsoft announced that several OEMs planned to release VR headsets designed for use with the Creators Update.^[27][26][29]

Controls for the Game Bar and Game DVR feature have moved to the Settings app, while a new «Game Mode» option allows resources to be prioritized towards games.^[30] Integration with Microsoft acquisition Mixer (formerly Beam)^[31] was added for live streaming.^[30] The themes manager moved to Settings app, and custom accent colors are now possible.^[30] The new app Paint 3D allows users to produce artwork using 3D models; the app is designed to make 3D creation more accessible to mainstream users.^[32]

Windows 10’s privacy settings have more detailed explanations of data that the operating system may collect. Additionally, the «enhanced» level of telemetry collection was removed.^[30] Windows Update notifications may now be «snoozed» for a period of time, the «active hours» during which Windows will not try to install updates may now extend up to 18 hours in length, and updates may be paused for up to seven days.^[30] Windows Defender has been replaced by the universal app Windows Defender Security Center.^[30] Devices may optionally be configured to prevent use of software from outside of Microsoft Store, or warn before installation of apps from outside of Microsoft Store.^[33] «Dynamic Lock» allows a device to automatically lock if it is outside of the proximity of a designated Bluetooth device, such as a smartphone.^[34] A «Night Light» feature was added, which allows the user to change the color temperature of the display to the red part of the spectrum at specific times of day (similarly to the third-party software f.lux).^[35]

Version 1709 (Fall Creators Update)

The fifth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1709, known as the Fall Creators Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 3» (RS3) during development. This version was released on October 17, 2017.^[36][37][38] Version 1709 introduces a new feature known as «My People», where shortcuts to «important» contacts can be displayed on the taskbar. Notifications involving these contacts appear above their respective pictures, and users can communicate with the contact via either Skype, e-mail, or text messaging (integrating with Android and Windows 10 Mobile devices). Support for additional services, including Xbox, Skype for Business, and third-party integration, are to be added in the future. Files can also be dragged directly to the contact’s picture to share them.^[39] My People was originally announced for Creators Update, but was ultimately held over to the next release,^[40][41] and made its first public appearance in Build 16184 in late April 2017.^[37] A new «Files-on-Demand» feature for OneDrive serves as a partial replacement for the previous «placeholders» function.^[42]

It also introduces a new security feature known as «controlled folder access», which can restrict the applications allowed to access specific folders. This feature is designed mainly to defend against file-encrypting ransomware.^[43]

Version 1803 (April 2018 Update)

The sixth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1803, known as the April 2018 Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 4» (RS4) during development. This version was released as a manual download on April 30, 2018, with a broad rollout on May 8, 2018.^[44][45] This update was originally meant to be released on April 10, but was delayed because of a bug which could increase chances of a «Blue Screen of Death» (Stop error).^[46]

The most significant feature of this build is Timeline, which is displayed within Task View. It allows users to view a list of recently-used documents and websites from supported applications («activities»). When users consent to Microsoft data collection via Microsoft Graph, activities can also be synchronized from supported Android and iOS devices.^{[47][48][49][42]}

Version 1809 (October 2018 Update)

The seventh stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1809, known as the October 2018 Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 5» (RS5) during development. This version was released on October 2, 2018.^[50] Highlighted features on this build include updates to the clipboard function (including support for clipboard history and syncing with other devices), SwiftKey virtual keyboard, Snip & Sketch, and File Explorer supporting the dark color scheme mode.^[51]

On October 6, 2018, the build was pulled by Microsoft following isolated reports of the update process deleting files from user directories.^[52] It was re-released to Windows Insider channel on October 9, with Microsoft citing a bug in OneDrive’s Known Folder Redirection function as the culprit.^[53][54]

On November 13, 2018, Microsoft resumed the rollout of 1809 for a small percentage of users.^[55][56]

The long term servicing release, Windows 10 Enterprise 2019 LTSC, is based on this version and is equivalent in terms of features.^[57]

Version 1903 (May 2019 Update)

The eighth stable build of Windows 10, version 1903, codenamed «19H1«, was released for general availability on May 21, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 8, 2019.^[58] Because of new practices introduced after the problems affecting the 1809 update, Microsoft used an intentionally slower Windows Update rollout process.^[59][60][61]

New features in the update include a redesigned search tool—separated from Cortana and oriented towards textual queries, a new «Light» theme (set as default on Windows 10 Home) using a white-colored taskbar with dark icons, the addition of symbols and kaomoji to the emoji input menu, the ability to «pause» system updates, automated «Recommended troubleshooting», integration with Google Chrome on Timeline via an extension, support for SMS-based authentication on accounts linked to Microsoft accounts, and the ability to run Windows desktop applications within the Windows Mixed Reality environment (previously restricted to universal apps and SteamVR only). A new feature on Pro, Education, and Enterprise known as Windows Sandbox allows users to run applications within a secured Hyper-V environment.^[62][63]

A revamped version of Game Bar was released alongside 1903, which redesigns it into a larger overlay with a performance display, Xbox friends list and social functionality, and audio and streaming settings.^[64]

Version 1909 (November 2019 Update)

The ninth stable build of Windows 10, version 1909, codenamed «19H2«, was released to the public on November 12, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since August 26, 2019.^[65] Unlike previous updates, this one was released as a minor service update without major new features.^[66]

Version 2004 (May 2020 Update)

The tenth stable build of Windows 10, version 2004, codenamed «20H1«, was released to the public on May 27, 2020 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 16, 2020.^[67] New features included faster and easier access to Bluetooth settings and pairing, improved Kaomojis, renamable virtual desktops, DirectX12 Ultimate, a chat-based UI for Cortana, greater integration with Android phones on the Your Phone app, Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL 2), and WSL 2 version includes a custom Linux kernel, unlike older WSL, the ability to use Windows Hello without the need for a password, improved Windows Search with integration with File Explorer, a cloud download option to reset Windows, accessibility improvements, and the ability to view disk drive type and discrete graphics card temperatures in Task Manager.^[68][69]

Version 20H2 (October 2020 Update)

The eleventh stable build of Windows 10, version 20H2, was released to the public on October 20, 2020 after being on the Beta Channel since June 16, 2020.^[70] New features include new theme-aware tiles in the Start Menu, new features and improvements to Microsoft Edge (such as a price comparison tool, Alt+Tab ↹ integration for tab switching, and easy access to pinned tabs), a new out-of-box experience with more personalization for the taskbar, notifications improvements, improvements to tablet mode, improvements to Modern Device Management, and the move of the System tab in Control Panel to the About page in Settings. This is the first version of Windows 10 to include the new Chromium-based Edge browser by default.^[71][72][73]

Version 21H1 (May 2021 Update)

The Windows 10 May 2021 Update^[74] (codenamed «21H1»^[75]) is the twelfth stable build for Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.19043. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to Beta Channel on February 17, 2021.^[76] The update began rolling out on May 18, 2021.^[77] Notable changes in the May 2021 Update include:^[78]

• Added multi-camera support for Windows Hello
• New «News and Interests» feature on the taskbar
• Performance improvements to Windows Defender Application Guard and WMI Group Policy Service

The update reached end of service after the release of build 19043.2364 on December 13, 2022.^[79][80]

Version 21H2 (November 2021 Update)

The Windows 10 November 2021 Update^[146] (codenamed «21H2»^[147]) is the twelfth major update to Windows 10 as the cumulative update to the May 2021 Update. It carries the build number 10.0.19044. The first preview was released on July 15, 2021 to Insiders who opted in to Release Preview Channel that failed to meet minimum system requirements for Windows 11.^[148][149] The update began rolling out on November 16, 2021. Notable changes in the November 2021 Update include:^[147][150]

• GPU compute support in the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) and Azure IoT Edge for Linux on Windows (EFLOW) deployments
• New simplified passwordless deployment models for Windows Hello for Business
• Support for WPA3 Hash-to-Element (H2E) standards

Version 22H2 (2022 Update)

The Windows 10 2022 Update^[172] (codenamed «22H2»^[173]) is the thirteenth and current major update to Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.19045. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to the Release Preview Channel on July 28, 2022.^[173] The update began rolling out on October 18, 2022.^[172]

Fast Ring / Dev Channel

Fast Ring

On December 16, 2019, Microsoft announced that Windows Insiders in the Fast Ring will receive builds directly from the rs_prerelease branch, which are not matched to a specific Windows 10 release. The first build released under the new strategy, build 19536, was made available to Insiders on the same day.^[175]

The mn_release branch was available from May 13, 2020 to June 17, 2020.^[176][177] The branch was mandatory for Insiders in the Fast Ring.^[177]

Dev Channel

As of June 15, 2020, Microsoft has introduced the «channels» model to its Windows Insider Program, succeeding its «ring» model.^[200] All future builds starting from build 10.0.20150, therefore, would be released to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.^[176]

The fe_release branch was available from October 29, 2020 to January 6, 2021.^[201][202] The branch was mandatory for Insiders until December 10. Afterward, Insiders could choose to move back to the rs_prerelease branch.^[203]

The co_release branch was available from April 5 to June 14, 2021.^[204] The branch was mandatory for Insiders.

As of June 28, 2021, the Dev Channel has transitioned to Windows 11.^[205]