14 DAY TRIAL // In addition to several changes in terms of looks and features, Windows 10 will also bring an important improvement under the hood, as Microsoft is working to update the kernel version from 6.4 to 10.0.
As we reported to you last week, the kernel update was already spotted in leaked builds of Windows 10, but Microsoft has finally confirmed in some official documents for developers that app makers should start updating as well to make sure that no software compatibilities are found.
“Developers preparing for Windows 10 should note that the Windows NT value in the UA string will change from 6.4 to 10.0 with the new release. If you have code that depends on the version number, we advise that you update to allow for the new value,” Microsoft says in an MSDN document.
At this point, the existing Windows 10 build 9879 version that's available for users comes with the same kernel 6.4, so the update could take place in the next release.
Software incompatibility, the main fear
The kernel update from 6.4 to 10.0 could cause serious problems on the upcoming Windows 10, especially as far as software compatibility with the new platform is concerned.
Microsoft knows this very well and is now trying to work with developers to prepare them for the kernel update, especially because the company most likely expects a number of software solutions to experience issues when installed on Windows 10.
However, everything comes down to how effectively Microsoft actually manages this entire update, as the company still has enough time to work with developers and make sure that no software problems would be experienced when Windows 10 comes out.
According to people close to the matter, Windows 10 could launch in spring 2015, but the company might very well push the launch back for a few months if development takes more than expected.
Next update coming in early 2015
The additional work that Microsoft needs to do in order to update the kernel in Windows 10 obviously requires a bit more attention, so the company has recently announced that the next pack of improvements for the Technical Preview will see daylight in early 2015.
Microsoft hasn't specifically mentioned the kernel update on the list of improvements for the next Windows 10 update, but it's believed that the company needs more time to focus on this particular thing, so the early 2015 release date really makes sense.
We've also contacted Microsoft for a few more details on the kernel update, so we'll update the article when and if we get an answer.
