Ready to try out the new Windows 10 Creators Update? Here’s your complete guide to getting the latest Windows features ahead of time.
What is the Windows 10 Creators Update?
The Creators Update is the next major version of Windows 10, expected to roll out to the public for free early next year.
The update introduces a bunch of new features, including new 3D design software (including MS Paint 3D), built-in video game broadcasting, and a new messaging hub that’s built into the taskbar.
You can read all about the new features in our Windows 10 Creators Update guide.
When is Windows 10 Creators Update available?
The Windows 10 Creators Update won’t be available in its full-fat public version until Spring 2017 – there’s still no exact release date, mind.
But an early Creators Update beta build will be available to access this week, which will give you a chance to try out some of the new features before they get the final thumbs-up from Microsoft.
How to download Windows 10 Creators Update
Early builds of the Windows 10 Creators Update will be available to all members of the Windows Insider Program. To try the beta, you’ll first need to sign up to become a Windows Insider:
Sign up for Windows Insider Program
Then, make sure you already have the Windows 10 Anniversary Update. If you’re not sure, download the Update Assistant here:
Download Microsoft’s Update Assistant
Once that’s done, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Insider Program, and then select Get Started. Follow the on-screen prompts to update your PC.
You’ll then be able to select your Insider level. If you want the new Paint 3D Preview, for instance, then you’ll need to select either the Fast or Slow ring:
Slow ring: (Most people!) If you are not a PC expert, but want to check out new features like the Paint 3D PreviewFast ring: (PC experts!) If you like to be on the cutting edge, this is the right ring for you. The Fast ring is for the more advanced people who are comfortable dealing with software bugs
Microsoft will then put you through a Compatibility check – in terms of specs, you’ll need a PC with 2GB of RAM and either 20GB (for 64-bit) or 16GB (for 32-bit) of storage.
Finally, you’ll be able to install the build, although you may need to wait 24 hours for a new build to appear. If you want the Paint 3D Preview, you can download it from the Windows Store once you’ve got the latest build (Build 14901 or higher will do).
A final note: You’ll need a Microsoft Account set to the UK, US, Canada English, Australia, or New Zealand to get 3D features in Windows with the Insider program.
