Microsoft rolls out Windows 10 update today: Here’s what’s new

Microsoft has started rolling out Windows 10 April 2018 update. Here are the top features of Microsoft’s latest update and how to install it.

Microsoft Windows 10 April 2018 is the fifth biggest update so far. (Shutterstock)

Microsoft has started rolling out the latest update for its Windows 10 devices. Microsoft Windows 10 April 2018 Update comes with features and improvements that focus on delivering better user experience, stringent security and major improvements to its Edge browser. This update also integrates more modern voice functionality to its operating system.

Microsoft's latest update is also known as Redstone 4, and the company's fifth biggest update since the "November update" rolled out in 2016. Since Windows 10 launch in June 2015, the company has changed its product upgrade cycle, with delivering major updates to the main software in six months instead of rolling out a newer version of the operating system.

How to download and install Windows 10 April 2018 Update
Microsoft says that the latest update will be available for download starting April 30. Since it is a gradual Over-the-air (OTA) roll-out, it should be available for your device within a few days.

Users, however, can manually check for the updates by opening the Settings menu and going to Update & Security > Windows Update. Next, click on "Check for Updates". This will start a scan for the new update.

If there's an update available, click on download and install it. You will have to restart your PC in order to complete the installation process. The update takes some time. Therefore, ensure you have saved your files before hitting the restart button.

Another method of downloading the latest Windows update is visiting the official page for Windows 10 update history. Click on the latest update and download the ISO file. Follow the instructions for the installation process. You can also use Windows 10 Update Assistant, an official Microsoft tool for users to securely update their devices. Note that this tool is not available for Enterprise editions of Windows 10.

Microsoft Windows 10 April 2018 Update: Top features
As said earlier, Microsoft's Windows 10 April 2018 Update will bring a bunch of new features. Let's take a look at the key changes that new Windows 10 update will bring.

Timeline
This is a familiar feature for Windows users. Timeline allows users to go back in time up to 30 days to locate your date. Users can use Timeline feature to find emails, file folders, documents and even photos and videos.

"Because much of our activity is on the go, you can even pick up what you were doing if signed into your Microsoft account while using Microsoft Edge or Office 365 on your iOS or Android device when you return to your Windows 10 PC," the company said on its website.

"Imagine looking at bathroom vanity options for that home remodel when you're out and about on your phone, and then finishing that purchase when you're back at your PC. Or working on a document on the bus during your commute and seamlessly picking it back up when you're at your desk," it explained.

Focus Assist
This feature essentially lets you turn off notifications from different platforms, including social networking applications. You can manually set the timeframe when you don't want the notifications. After you're done with your work and want to catch up with all the missed notifications, Microsoft will deliver a summary of what came through, including emails, updates or any other push notification. You can also set exceptions for different kinds of notifications and users from whom you wish to receive notifications.

Edge Browser
Focus Assist has also been deeply integrated with Microsoft's Edge browser. The feature now lets you click the audio icon to mute or unmute a web page that's playing a sound — similar to Google Chrome's mute and unmute feature. Taking inspiration from Apple's Safari, Edge browser aims to deliver a less-cluttered experience for reading. The browser lets you go full screen for reading books, PDFs and even web pages.

Users can save their data on Edge browser for smoother shopping experience. You can now use Microsoft's autofill tool to store address, payment and other information. Note that Microsoft doesn't save the CVV number for security purposes.

There's also a new Grammar Tools button. "Grammar Tools can break the words on the page into syllables, as well as highlight different parts of speech such as nouns, verbs, and adjectives," said Microsoft.

Improved Voice and Cortana
The Windows 10 April 2018 update comes with a new Dictation feature. Users can now simply give voice inputs to note down anything. To use this feature, you can simply place the cursor in any text field in Windows 10 or any application. You can also use Win + H shortcut to get started with voice inputs.

Cortana now also connects with smart home devices. "With the April 2018 Update and Cortana enabled on your Windows 10 PC, you can manage your smart home right from your PC using just your voice. For example, want to come home to a warm house from a long day at work? Just tap Cortana on your PC and say "Hey Cortana, set the living room thermostat to 72 degrees" to control your ecobee, Honeywell, Nest Learning thermostat and more," said Microsoft.