On August 7, 2025, Microsoft announced the general availability of the Cloud Update feature for enterprise customers using Microsoft 365 Apps. This update introduces a new way to manage app updates directly from the cloud, simplifying IT administration and improving update reliability. It is designed to help organizations manage updates more efficiently without relying on traditional on-premises infrastructure.
This feature is available for:
- Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise
- Devices running Windows 10 or Windows 11
- Devices joined to Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory)
- Devices managed by Microsoft Intune or other Mobile Device Management (MDM)
What is Cloud Update?
Cloud Update is a new capability that allows Microsoft 365 Apps to receive updates directly from Microsoft’s content delivery network (CDN). It eliminates the need for local update sources like Configuration Manager or local file shares.
Cloud Update uses policies set in the Microsoft 365 Apps admin center to control:
- Update channels
- Version targeting
- Rollout timing
Key Features
- Pause: Temporarily stop all update deployments for the Monthly Enterprise Channel profile. If a new update introduces compatibility concerns, admins can pause rollouts, giving time to address issues before resuming updates.
- Rollback: Quickly revert devices on the Monthly Enterprise Channel to either of the previous monthly version if issues arise. Devices remain on the rolled-back version until the next scheduled update, providing a critical safety net while maintaining update momentum in unaffected areas.
- Exclusion Windows: Avoid disruptions during critical business periods – like tax season -by specifying exclusion windows in which updates are deferred. These windows can be targeted to specific groups or devices, ensuring that business continuity is preserved during peak times.
- Rollout Waves: Customize your update deployment schedule by assigning devices to different rollout waves. Early adopters can receive updates first for testing and feedback, followed by broader organizational deployment. Rollout waves help reduce network congestion and allow for staged validation of updates, with built-in thresholds to prevent overwhelming your environment.
Licensing
Cloud Update is included with Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise. No additional license is required.
For tailored licensing advice, consult with SCHNEIDER IT MANAGEMENT, your trusted experts in Microsoft licensing.
More information
For the official Microsoft announcement, please visit: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft_365blog/cloud-update-reaches-general-availability-transforming-microsoft-365-apps-manage/4440710.
For our Microsoft page, please visit: https://www.schneider.im/software/microsoft.
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