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Windows 10 1903 comes with setup error improvements

Microsoft plans to improve the user experience during setup of Windows 10 in regards to error messages the system may display in the coming Windows 10 version 1903.

The company demonstrated the current and new functionality in the latest Windows Insider Webcast on Mixer (starts at the 1 hour mark).

The company acknowledged that the current system is not well suited to provide users who are not very tech savvy with needed information to fix issues encountered during setup (or upgrade).

The "What needs your attention" dialog, for example, highlights applications that may not be fully compatible with the new version of Windows.

Current versions of Windows 10 may display a Knowledgebase ID but it is not linked and customers may not know what to do with it other than to provide it when they contact IT support or Microsoft.

The only actionable options are to go back and end setup or to refresh; refresh won't change anything, however, until the software is either removed or, if possible, updated.

windows setup issue

The next feature update introduces changes to the setup process to make error messages less cryptic and provide users with better information and actions to address the issue directly.

The following changes are planned:

  • Make sure that KB articles are linked so that they may be opened directly.
  • Provide users with options to uninstall or upgrade applications, if applicable.
  • Provide users with an option to learn more about the issue.

The following screenshot shows a Windows Update error message that prompts the user to remove certain applications in current versions of Windows 10.

some apps need uninstalled

The interface provides little information other than that Windows compatibility found these apps to be incompatible with a newer version of Windows. The only options that users have is to uninstall the listed programs to continue, or close the dialog.

The updated dialog for the same issue provides users with more information.

what needs your attention 1903

It adds icons to each application, includes a "learn more" link for each application, and options for each of the listed applications. For some applications, Windows may hint that users may be able to update the application instead to resolve the issue.

Also, there is a link to general information about the issue which links to a KB support article, and options to go back or refresh the dialog.

Closing Words

Microsoft has to find answers to some questions that are not addressed yet. It is not clear right now how Microsoft can provide information to offline devices.

Most users should welcome the changes as they improve the setup experience. Users may find actionable options in setup and may look up information directly without having to leave the setup interface or use a different device for research.

Now You: Which error related issues should Microsoft address as well? (via Winfuture)

 

This article was first seen on ComTek's "TekBits" Technology News

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