Two changes in the way patching is done.. and thematically the same.
Microsoft has rolled out “update under lock,” which allows the revision of Office apps while a PC is in idle, locked mode, or if the apps are running. Microsoft promises the new method for updating Microsoft 365 apps will mean “zero notifications, zero disruptions” to users and reduce the need for forced updates. “Update under lock” tries to shut down Office apps when it’s safe to do so and then applies a pending update. It then restores closed apps to their previous state. All this should happen in seconds, according to Microsoft.
Apple has debuted Rapid Security Response in iOS 16, which allows for the background install of security updates automatically.. .and now includes a way to remove them.
Why do we care?
Seamless, background patching is the story, and I can hear the shrieks from so many providers over this. Savvy ones recognize that this is the wave of the future. With Microsoft’s coming Autopatch features within the management tools set and a trend to manage compliance of patch level as a norm, we’re getting glimpses of the future already.