End of the Beta Channel for Windows 10 Insiders: What You Need to Know
On June 4, 2024, Microsoft reignited interest in the Windows 10 Insider program by reintroducing the Beta Channel. This initiative aimed to allow users to trial upcoming features before they were made available to the general public. However, as skepticism mounted regarding new feature development for a soon-to-be-obsolete operating system, the effectiveness of this return was uncertain. Fast forward five months, and the Beta Channel’s revival has met an untimely end.
Final Build Released
In a recent update, Microsoft disclosed that the freshly released Windows 10 build 19045.5194 (KB5046714) marks the conclusion of the Beta Channel. According to the changelog, this build will be the last distributed to the Beta Channel, signaling an impending shutdown.
The Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel will receive the same Windows 10 build today just like we’ve been doing since June. However, this will be the last time we release a Windows 10 build to the Beta Channel as we will be shutting down the Beta Channel for Windows 10.
Transitioning to the Release Preview Channel
For Windows 10 insiders currently using the Beta Channel, Microsoft will automatically transition users to the Release Preview Channel. Alternatively, individuals have the option to manually migrate their systems. The Release Preview Channel will continue to receive updates, although no information is currently available regarding the timeline for the complete closure of the Insider program for Windows 10.
Windows 10’s Final Year and Extended Support Options
As Windows 10 approaches the final year of mainstream support, the operating system is set to reach its end of life in October 2025. Microsoft is preparing for the significant number of PCs that will no longer receive updates. For users who cannot upgrade to Windows 11—either due to hardware limitations or other reasons—an Extended Security Update (ESU) program is now available. For the first time, regular consumers will have the opportunity to purchase an additional 12 months of security updates at a cost of $30, while enterprises can secure up to three years of support.
To stay informed about the future of Windows 10 and its support extensions, you may follow recent updates from Microsoft.
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