Microsoft is making it easier to test new Windows 10 app updates without running Insider builds

If you're a fan of what's next in regards to new app features, but aren't entirely committed to running pre-release builds of Windows on your main hardware to get them, we may have some good news for you. It appears Microsoft is working on a way that will allow users to preview app updates early without requiring the user to be running Insider builds.

Thurrott spotted that several inbox Windows 10 apps now have the option to preview new features, even if the user isn't part of the Insider Program. Senior Program Manager on the Windows Insider Team, Brandon LeBlanc, says this change will allow users to test app updates early on both Insider or retail versions of Windows 10.

Users will be able to opt-in to preview new app features on a per-app basis, even on retail builds of Windows 10. So for example, if Microsoft is testing new app features for Mail on an Insider build, users who aren't running Insider builds can opt-in to the app preview on a retail build and receive that same update. Pretty neat.

This should allow Microsoft to get more feedback on new features in testing from people who are interested in new features, but aren't able to run Insider builds. Microsoft says it will have more to share on this new "app preview" feature soon, so stay tuned for that.

Zac Bowden
Senior Editor

Zac Bowden is a Senior Editor at Windows Central. Bringing you exclusive coverage into the world of Windows on PCs, tablets, phones, and more. Also an avid collector of rare Microsoft prototype devices! Keep in touch on Twitter and Threads

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