Microsoft is overhauling Windows Insider to make it easier for beta testers

The Windows Insider program is integral to Microsoft's ability to freshen up Windows 10 with bi-annual feature updates, the most recent of which was the May 2020 update. Without the program, pushing out major updates twice a year would be a bit ambitious (too many bugs pass through as it is). However, participating in the program has not always been straightforward, but that is about to change.

Well, somewhat, anyway. In part to make things less confusing, Microsoft is transitioning away from "Rings" to "Channels" with clearer language on what each of the tiers entails. This also involves a change in the way updates are pushed out.

"As we continue to evolve the way we release Windows 10 and the diversity of Insiders we serve is greater than ever, it is critical that Insiders have a flighting option that is tailored to their needs. We believe the best way to do this is to shift focus from frequency to quality," Microsoft explains.

Starting sometime later this month, both the Fast and Skip Ahead Rings will morph into the Dev Channel. This is intended for "highly technical users" and is where testers can be the first to access the latest builds at their earliest in the development cycle.

Paul has been playing PC games and raking his knuckles on computer hardware since the Commodore 64. He does not have any tattoos, but thinks it would be cool to get one that reads LOAD"*",8,1. In his off time, he rides motorcycles and wrestles alligators (only one of those is true).