14 DAY TRIAL // Intel has released new graphics drivers that come with support for Windows 10 May 2019 Update, the OS feature update that’s only scheduled to roll out next month.
While it doesn’t make much sense to release new drivers so early, Intel’s Graphics Driver 26.20.100.6709 for Windows 10 64-bit comes with one big role: help test compatibility and thus avoid the blunder that occurred when Microsoft launched the October 2018 Update (version 1809).
Intel’s drivers for Windows 10 version 1809 caused particular issues for users who attempted to install Microsoft’s late 2018 OS feature update.
The Intel Smart Sound Technology driver version 09.21.00.3755 broke down the audio completely after installing the latest version of the operating system, while the graphics drivers forced Microsoft to set an upgrade block to prevent further problems on these PCs.
Upgrade block in place on Intel devices
In fact, an upgrade block is still in place for devices running Intel display drivers versions 24.20.100.6344 and 24.20.100.6345. Microsoft says Intel “inadvertently” released these drivers to OEMs, and as a result, unsupported features are “accidentally’ turned on in Windows.
“After updating to Windows 10, version 1809, audio playback from a monitor or television connected to a PC via HDMI, USB-C, or a DisplayPort may not function correctly on devices with these drivers,” Microsoft says.
The issue has already been fixed in the meantime by Intel, who has released updated drivers to OEMs, but it takes time until all release them via Windows Update for impacted devices. As a result, Microsoft is blocking these PCs from getting the October update on their PCs.
Windows 10 May 2019 Update is projected to launch next month for all users. The update has already reached the RTM stage, and it is currently offered to insiders in the Release Preview ring for the last round of testing before the go-ahead is given for production devices.