You can now get the Windows 10 Creators Update – here’s how

Although Microsoft already announced a launch date for its next major update to Windows 10, it’s decided to let users grab it sooner.

Microsoft will officially start its multi-stage rollout of the Windows 10 Creators Update starting on 11 April, but if you’re excited and want it sooner, you can now manually download it through the Update Assistant. Microsoft already announced it would allow Windows 10 users to install the new version of the OS early. Keeping its word, the company has launched the upgrade a week prior to its official release.

So, here’s how to get the Creators Update now, early.

What is the Creators Update?

Since mid 2015, we’ve had Windows 10 in our lives. Microsoft has taken a more step-by-step update stance with Windows 10, delivering major updates about once a year, starting with the Anniversary Update in 2016, and now, the Creators Update. Starting 11 April, Microsoft will rollout the free-to-download Creators Update, and it brings a variety of new features, including a 3D-focused version of the classic Paint app.

Just check out these Pocket-lint guides:

• What’s new in Windows 10 Creators Update?
• The best new features from the Creators Update

Who can install the Creators Update?

Anyone with a device running a licensed version of Windows 10 is eligible to install the Creators Update. Go here to view the specifics on Windows 10’s hardware requirements.

How can you get the Creators Update early?

Microsoft announced in a blog post that it would make the update available as a manual upgrade about a week prior to the official release. So, starting 5 April, all you have to do is go here to download the Update Assistant (if you don’t already have it), and then follow the on-screen instructions to update. It downloads a disc image (ISO file) that can be used to install Windows 10 – and it should be pretty straightforward.

Do you want to wait instead?

No problem. After 11 April, when the update is “officially” ready for your device, you’ll receive a notification asking you to review your privacy settings before downloading the update. Check out Microsoft’s blog post for more details.

Are you a Windows Insider?

If you’re already in Microsoft’s Insider Program, now is a good time to to stop receiving Insider builds. Go to the Windows Insider Program section of the Settings app. You’ll be asked if Windows should “Keep giving me builds until the next Windows release.” Select that option if you want to continue to test previews of “cumulative Updates” until 11 April. After, your system will revert to receiving stable, non-beta updates.

It’s free to be Windows Insider, and as one, you get to test future Windows updates in beta. If any of you want to become an Windows Insider, just go to Microsoft’s Windows Insider website, sign into your Microsoft account, and click Get Started.