Windows 11 OOBE on ARM PCs Is Getting a Smarter Way to Install Critical Updates

Microsoft has updated how critical driver and firmware updates are delivered during Windows 11 setup. In the Tech Community blogpost, the company confirmed that it is giving ARM device makers more control over which System Manifest version reaches a new PC during the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE).

ARM-based Windows 11 PCs will deliver crictical updates before you reach desktop

Microsoft the new Hardware Dev Center capability will let hardware partners request approval for a specific System Manifest version to be delivered during OOBE. The idea is simple; new devices can get the minimum critical update needed to provide a reliable first-run experience without automatically pulling down newer updates that are not required during setup.

System Manifests contain coordinated driver and firmware updates for ARM devices. Previously, once a system was approved for System Manifest delivery during OOBE, Windows could offer the latest applicable retail version during setup.

That could mean a device received updates beyond the fix it actually needed, potentially adding more download, installation and restart time to the OOBE process. Microsoft’s new version-specific delivery system separates the critical OOBE baseline from the latest retail System Manifest. If a device is below the approved baseline, Windows can deliver that version during setup. Devices already running that version or something newer will not install another System Manifest during OOBE.

For example, Microsoft says a device shipping with System Manifest version 1 could receive version 2 during OOBE if version 2 fixes a critical setup issue. If version 3 later becomes available with routine improvements, Windows Update can offer it after setup instead.

Not every Windows 11 update will qualify for OOBE delivery

Microsoft is also putting limits on what hardware partners can push through this system. The company says OOBE delivery is intended for severe issues that can prevent setup from completing or create a significant risk of the device being returned.

Routine quality improvements, cosmetic fixes and updates that can wait until after the first sign-in should continue through normal Windows Update servicing. The new capability is available for ARM systems running Windows 11 version 24H2 and later and applies to System Manifest driver and firmware servicing. Loose-leaf driver delivery is not included.

Hardware partners wanting to use the feature must submit an OOBE-specific request through Microsoft Collaborate, receive a Design Change Request ID and then submit the System Manifest through Hardware Dev Center with the required OOBE business justification. Microsoft will then review the proposed baseline, flighting and technical validation before approving production OOBE delivery.