Microsoft is promising to allow users to indefinitely pause automatic updates, without being forced to install them. The move is part of a wider effort to improve performance, responsiveness and stability, reduce memory consumption, make File Explorer and other apps launch and run faster, reduce crashes, improve drivers, and more. Microsoft's Windows boss, Pavan Davuluri, also announced that the company will allow users who want new features more easily and clearer information about what they will receive. The announcement comes after months of analysis of feedback from Windows users and suggests that Microsoft may no longer use Windows as a vehicle for its other products.