Microsoft starts rolling out Windows 10 anniversary update

Windows users had been waiting long for this. And yesterday was the big day when Microsoft started the rollout of its Windows 10 Anniversary Update to all existing Windows 10 users around the globe.

Since the Anniversary update is being rolled out in a phased manner, not all users would get it at once. For those who just can't wait, it is possible to manually download the update. Users who want the update on their work Windows 10 machines need to check with their IT administrator(s) to get the same.

The update brings numerous features including the new Windows Ink and Cortana experience, more efficient Microsoft Edge browser, enhanced security, new gaming features and others. The company also announced that the update for Windows 10 Mobile running smartphones will start rolling out on August 9th.

Windows 10 Anniversary update brings some nice improvements to the Start Menu. The improved Start Menu shows the 'All Apps' view permanently and the taskbar can be hidden automatically in the tablet mode. To show more notifications, along with support for rich Cortana notifications, the layout of Action Center has been also refined.

The central aspect of the update is the new Windows Ink Workspace, which is a panel that enables instant access to pen-supported apps and functions. The update also includes three new pen-specific apps - Sketchpad (for sketching), Screen sketch (for annotating screenshots) and Sticky Note (for notes).

Microsoft is also releasing a new UWP version of the Skype for Windows application, that apparently, has been designed from scratch.

The application, besides having a cool new dark theme, is very closely integrated with the operating system and can be used to do things that were not possible with any of its previous versions.

As per a blog post on the topic, “We worked closely with the Windows team to build a new Skype. We redesigned the app from the ground up so that Skype works seamlessly with Windows 10, taking advantage of the Universal Windows Platform. Starting today with the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, we are rolling out a faster and easier way for Windows 10 customers to use Skype.”

Other features included are background music and Cortana support for Xbox One, the ability for game developers to use the Universal Windows Platform, notification badges for open apps in the taskbar and add-on support for Microsoft Edge browser.

Microsoft has also made it clear that the Windows 10 Anniversary update will be available in all countries where Windows 10 is available, but Cortana will be available only in select markets.