It’s official, Microsoft has started rolling out Windows 10 version 21H1, also known as the May 2021 Update, to all Windows 10 users. The new Windows 10 release will roll out gradually via Windows Update, and the installation update should be really quick for users already running Windows 10 version 2004 or 20H2.
“In the current environment, we know that you continue to rely on your PCs more than ever. As a result, we are initially taking a measured seeker-based approach to the rollout of the May 2021 Update. We are throttling availability up over the coming weeks to ensure a reliable download experience for all, so the update may not be offered to you right away” explained John Cable, Vice President, Program Management, Windows Servicing and Delivery.
Overall, Windows 10 version 21H1 is a pretty minor update, and the main new feature is multi-camera support for Windows Hello. This should be a welcome addition for owners of webcams that support Microsoft’s authentication technology. This update also brings performance improvements for Windows Defender Application Guard.
To check if Windows 10 21H1 is available for your PC, you’ll need to open your Windows Update settings (Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update) and select Check for updates. If you can’t wait for Windows Update to offer it to your PC, here are a couple of alternatives:
- You can use the Microsoft Upgrade Assistant to install the update on your PC.
- If you want to do a clean install, you can use the same app to create installation media using a USB flash drive or DVD
- You can also join the Windows Insider Release Preview ring to get the update and leave it once the installation is done.
“As with each release, we will closely monitor the May 2021 Update experience and share timely information on the current rollout status and known issues (open and resolved) across both feature and monthly updates via the Windows release health hub and @WindowsUpdate,” Cable said today.
