Microsoft confirms two major updates planned for Windows 10 in 2017

As we've reported in the past, Microsoft is planning to return to a twice-a-year update cadence for Windows 10 in 2017, releasing two major updates similarly to the Threshold wave of updates released back in 2015. In a blog post on the Microsoft TechNet website, the company has confirmed these plans.

From the blog post:

"Windows 10, version 1607 is our third Windows 10 feature update released. Based on feedback from organizations moving to Windows 10, this will be our last feature update for 2016, with two additional feature updates expected in 2017."

Windows Central understands that the first major update for 2017 (codenamed Redstone 2) will release in the early part of 2017. The second major update scheduled for 2017 is codenamed "Redstone 3", which I've heard is being targeted for a Summer/Early Fall 2017 launch.

This will leave around 4-6 months between Redstone 2 and Redstone 3, which is similar to the update pattern that the Threshold update wave followed. Redstone 3 will likely be a much smaller update compared to Redstone 2, much like Threshold 2 was to Threshold 1.

Microsoft is currently in the midst of Redstone 2 development, with the latest internal builds now being compiled around the 14900 range. It shouldn't be too long before Insiders begin receiving Redstone 2 bits for testing, as Microsoft is keen on getting the latest bits out for testing as soon as possible for maximum bug catching and feedback.

Of course, considering we're still several months away from any updates being ready for the public, schedules and timings could easily change. However, one thing is definitely clear; Microsoft wants two major updates out in 2017, which is great news for Insiders and consumers who want to stay updated with the latest features and enhancements from Microsoft.