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Windows 10: Fears that Microsoft is about to force updates over metered connections

Updated: Microsoft causes Windows 10 jitters by changing language around Windows Updates downloads over metered connections.
Written by Liam Tung, Contributing Writer
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Microsoft now says on metered connections it will "automatically download only those updates required to keep Windows running smoothly".

Image: SuperSite Windows/Microsoft

Some Windows fans are worried that the upcoming Windows 10 Creators Update could mean costly data bills.

Windows 10 currently treats Windows Updates on cellular networks differently to those over Wi-Fi because Microsoft knows these updates can be large and result in sizeable bills if they take place on a so-called metered connection, such as a cellular network.

For this reason Windows 10 only downloads 'priority updates'.

But, as SuperSite Windows reports, the latest Windows Insider fast ring build of the Windows 10 Creators update notes a change to the language used.

In the Windows Update section of Windows Settings, Microsoft now says on metered connections it will "automatically download only those updates required to keep Windows running smoothly".

Microsoft could allay fears by expanding on what these necessary updates are and how big might they might be.

Of course, the fast ring Insider builds aren't necessarily what will arrive in the final release, but the Creators Update is expected to arrive in only a few weeks' time now.

Update: Microsoft has now responded to say it doesn't plan to send large updates over metered connections, "but could use this for critical fixes if needed in the future."

In the longer term, Microsoft is working on a new update system that will deliver smaller updates in future, which will eventually benefit users regardless of the connection they're on.

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