14 DAY TRIAL // The most recent Windows 11 preview build, live right now in the Dev channel of the Windows Insider program, comes with a big improvement for Windows Update.
Starting with Windows 11 build 22567, Windows Update is trying to reduce carbon emissions by trying to leverage renewable energy.
In other words, the operating system will try to install updates for Windows 11 at a time when your computer uses clean energy.
“Windows Update will try to schedule update installations at specific times of day when doing so results in lower carbon emissions. Most electrical grids are powered by multiple sources, including renewables and fossil fuels. Whenever possible, Windows 11 will now prioritize installing updates in the background at times when greater amounts of clean energy sources (like wind, solar, and hydro) are available. Users can always choose to install updates immediately by navigating to Settings > Windows Update and choosing “Check for Updates,’” Microsoft explains.
Only available for certain users
Microsoft explains that not everybody is getting this feature, as it all depends on the information available on clean energy.
However, if the setting is enabled for you, Windows Update should display a message on its main setting page to let you know it’s trying to reduce carbon emissions.
“This feature will only be enabled when your PC is plugged-in and regional carbon intensity data is available from our partners electricityMap or WattTime. If enabled, users will see the text shown below on the Windows Update settings page. We’re still working on the content that the text links to – stay tuned for future updates,” the company explains.
Keep in mind this feature is currently available only in the Dev channel, and of course, there’s no ETA as to when it could be released to production devices.