Microsoft kicks off preview for next Windows 10 update coming later this year

Windows 10 Cloud Wallpaper
Windows 10 Cloud Wallpaper (Image credit: Microsoft)

Microsoft has today released the first Redstone 5 build of Windows 10, officially kicking off the Insider Preview of the next version of Windows 10 coming after Redstone 4 this Spring. Microsoft is now in the final stages of Redstone 4 development, with the company now focused on fixing bugs and making sure the OS is stable for release.

Insiders who are in the Skip Ahead ring will now be flighted Redstone 5 builds instead, with today's first preview rolling out as build 17604. The rest of the Insider Program will remain on Redstone 4 testing for the time being, as Microsoft still needs feedback on stability in these last few weeks of Redstone 4 development.

This initial preview build of Redstone 5 includes no noteworthy new features or changes over the Redstone 4 build, which is to be expected as development on Redstone 5 has not long started. We understand that Microsoft is planning to introduce Cloud Clipboard in this release, along with further UI refinements and possibly improvements to the Start menu and System Tray.

Redstone 5 preview testing has only just begun, so it should be a little while before any big new features start making their way into Insider builds. Redstone 5 is expected to launch in September or October later this year. What are you hoping MIcrosoft introduces in this update? Let us know in the comments!

Zac Bowden
Senior Editor

Zac Bowden is a Senior Editor at Windows Central. Bringing you exclusive coverage into the world of Windows on PCs, tablets, phones, and more. Also an avid collector of rare Microsoft prototype devices! Keep in touch on Twitter and Threads