Windows 10 Fall Creators Update Hits RTM Ahead Of October 17th Launch

Microsoft has completed work on its Fall Creators Update for Windows 10. As of build 16299.15, the Fall Creators Update reached RTM (release to manufacturing) status, which is the final code that gets doled out to OEM system builders so they can pre-load PCs with the final version for day-of-release availability. Everyone else will be able to get their hands on the newest update starting October 17.

Windows Insiders can get the jump on everyone else by downloading and installing the latest build. It includes cumulative security and feature updates and will serve as the baseline OS install until the next big update arrive. Barring any changes in strategy, Microsoft has committed to releasing two major upgrades to Windows 10 every year—the Fall Creators Update is the second one for 2017.

Windows 10

One of things Microsoft is pushing with the Fall Creators Update is mixed reality experiences. It has partnered with several third-party hardware makers to ready lower-cost mixed reality headsets based on its blueprint. Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung are all on board with mixed reality headsets that are available to pre-order from the Microsoft Store. As to how prominently gaming plays into all of this remains to be seen.

The Fall Creators Update is also the first to incorporate elements of Microsoft's Fluent Design language. This includes subtle (and some not-so-subtle) performance and user interface (UI) enhancements, such as smoother transitions, easier resizing, and so forth. It is a step towards modernizing the look and feel of Windows 10, without completely revamping the OS.

Some other changes include streamlining system settings, better transparency in regards to privacy controls, security improvements, better Cortana integration, smarter storage (OneDrive Files on Demand is being integrated into Windows 10), and of course improved security, to name a few of the things headed our way.