Windows Patching a new way

Microsoft is testing a way to quickly bring new features and improvements to Windows 10 outside of the regularly scheduled Windows cumulative updates

However, scheduled updates make it difficult to quickly roll out a new improvement or fix a discovered bug in an existing feature.

Microsoft is introducing a new method of delivering feature improvements and bug fixes through ‘Windows Feature Experience Packs.’

Microsoft explains that Windows Feature Experience Packs will be used to quickly deliver improvements and bug fixes for standalone features developed independently of the core OS.

Through the Windows Feature Experience Pack, we can improve certain features and experiences that are now developed independently of the OS. Currently, only a limited number of features are being developed this way, so we are starting out very scoped” Microsoft explains.

Windows features that are developed independently of the core OS and that may be updated through feature experience packs include:

Windows 10 Start Menu
Windows Snipping Tool
Internet Explorer
XBOX integration
Windows Subsystem for Linux
Notepad
Paint
Other features that are installed via the Optional Features settings.

This new feature delivery mechanism is being tested first with Windows Insiders in the Beta channel. To receive this update, users will need to have Windows 10 20H2 build 19042.662 installed and perform a ‘Check for updates’ in the Windows Update screen.