Download and Install now lets PC users choose which updates to install

Microsoft introduces a new Download and Install feature in the upcoming Windows 10 May 2019 Update.

Download and Install is available for Windows 10 version 1903. This new feature provides users with a complete hold over the download and install of new updates.

Microsoft introduced this new feature as a result of the huge number of complaints recorded about updates being downloaded automatically without users’ permission.

New updates were installed automatically and the machines rebooted by themselves. This often resulted in loss of files and folders which was really annoying.

Windows 10 separates feature update from security update installs

We’re sure Microsoft’s statement comes as a relief to most Windows users.

Download and install now option provides users a separate control to initiate the installation of a feature update on eligible devices with no known key blocking compatibility issues. Users can still “Check for updates” to get monthly quality and security updates. Windows will automatically initiate a new feature update if the version of Windows 10 is nearing the end of support. We may notify you when a feature update is available and ready for your machine. All Windows 10 devices with a supported version will continue to automatically receive the monthly updates.

This new feature seems to be working well as one Redditor confirmed that the version 1903 already shows the new button to “Download and install now.”

From now onwards, users will be able to use this option to better control the update process and decide when they want the updates to be installed.

Previously, users could utilize Active hours to prevent the automatic rebooting of the computer for a given timeframe. However, Download and Install is a more convenient alternative.

The good news doesn’t end here. The company plans to extend this new features to other versions as well. Microsoft added that:

This new “download and install” option will also be available for our most popular versions of Windows 10, versions 1803 and 1809, by late May.

Until this feature is available to all users, you may want to check out these guides to learn how you can block or postpone Windows 10 updates:

• Block Windows 10 v1903 install with Windows Update Blocker 1.2
• How to Block Automatic Updates in Windows 10
• Here’s how to pause Windows 10 updates for 35 days