Microsoft is poised to roll out one of the biggest updates for the Windows 10 operating system as promised. Come Aug. 2, the Redmond-based company will push out the Anniversary Update for Windows 10.
The Anniversary Update for Windows 10 is the second major update for the OS and brings several new features in its folds.
Earlier in June, Microsoft's Yusuf Mehdi, corporate vice president of Windows and Devices Group, spilled the beans that the Anniversary Update for the OS would be arriving on Aug. 2. The update would be "full of new innovations for consumers and enterprises." Thanks to the update, users of Windows 10 would not only be safer online but also more productive.
Mehdi also divulged that Anniversary Update for Windows 10 would bring to both enterprises and consumers six areas of enhancements and innovation.
Here's what we can expect from the Anniversary Update once it is pushed out:
Security Improvements
The preview builds have offered Windows Insiders a glimpse into several features the Anniversary Update will bring. This includes the capacity to run third-party antivirus suites in tandem with Windows Defender.
Moreover, the Windows Hello feature will enable users to unlock their device using biometric logins, which will ensure more stringent protection.
Additionally, Microsoft has revealed that it has revamped Windows Defender so that malware will not be an issue for users. That is not all, Microsoft also brings the Windows Information Protection feature in the Anniversary Update, which will be useful for enterprises. Thanks to this feature, business users will be able to segregate both organizational and personal data, which will in turn help safeguard against data leaks.
Enhanced Abilities For Cortana
The Cortana voice assistant also benefits from more features, which have been carefully designed to make her more realistic. Oh, and did we mention that even if the screen is locked you will still be able to use Cortana's abilities?
Improved Microsoft Edge
The Microsoft Edge browser will also get tweaked and post the Anniversary Update, will consume less power to run. The browser will get several extensions such as Amazon Assistant and the Pin It Button from Pinterest.
More Promoted Apps
However, not all the changes the update will bring will be positive. In May, Tech Times reported that Microsoft would increase the promoted app tiles from five to 10 in the free update. Moreover, specific Windows Inbox Apps would be dispersed through Promoted Apps. The idea behind this is to "reduce OEM image complexity and creation."
Rumors are also rife that internal builds of the Anniversary Update include pop-up ads for games and apps. These can be seen when a user has the Window Store pinned on their taskbar.
Fingerprint Support For Windows 10 Mobile
Another possibility that Tech Times reported on in May is that the Anniversary Update could bring fingerprint support for Windows 10 Mobile. A PDF of a presentation for Microsoft had confirmed the feature's arrival.
With the gradual rollout for the Anniversary Update for Windows 10 set to begin on Aug. 2, we will soon know if Microsoft has any surprises in store.
Microsoft counsels that one make a backup of important data before downloading the free update, as well as keeping about 3 GB of storage space free.
