How To Get The Windows 10 Creators Update Without The Wait

Are you ready for Windows 10 Creators Update? As you’ve probably heard, Microsoft officially rolled out its third Windows 10 refresh on April 11, 2017. While this is the date Microsoft is publicizing, the reality is that you may not be able to get it for some time after the official date. In fact, it could be as long as a couple of months.

Of course, Microsoft is planning on rolling out the Creators Update in phases. Considering the fact that, according to Microsoft, there are 400 million devices running Windows 10, it really couldn’t do it any other way. However, the key to these rollout phases seems to be based on the age of your system. Apparently, newer systems will receive it first while older systems will receive it later. According to a recent Windows 10 blog:

“The first phase will target newer devices, especially those we tested together with our OEM hardware partners. We will then expand the Creators Update release to additional devices based on the feedback we receive during the initial phase. We’ll iterate this process over a period of several months until all compatible devices running Windows 10 worldwide are offered the Creators Update. Windows Phone will follow the same phased approach, with rollout scheduled to begin April 25. Note that update availability may vary by manufacturer, model, country or region, mobile operator or service provider, specific installed software, hardware limitations and other factors such as feedback from customers.”

Reading between the lines, it appears that this newer-to-older system staggered release cycle will allow Microsoft deliver the Creators Update to systems that will be able to run this newest Windows 10 version without problems. This will allow Creators Update to get good press right out of the gate. Then, when the staggered releases start moving down the line toward older and older systems, if problems arise, the noise won’t carry as much weight. Furthermore, it will allow Microsoft to receive feedback, find and fix compatibility issues, and issue interim fixes/patches as needed, before getting to the systems most likely to encounter problems. Pretty good plan, huh?

Well, what if you are ready to get your hands on the Creators Update right away, regardless of the age of your system? Fortunately, Microsoft anticipated that scenario and provided a way to circumvent the staggered release phases and immediately download and install the Creators Update using a tool called the Update Assistant. Let’s take a closer look.