Despite our report yesterday, Microsoft will not release an update that allows Windows 10 users to disable the operating system's 'phone home' features. Forbes reported that a Microsoft spokesperson told them that such an update would be released later this year but it appears to be miscommunication.
The update would have allowed users to disable data tracking and the collection of telemetry data. Microsoft watcher Ed Bott today reports Forbes appears to have misinterpreted Microsoft. He states to have received the information from several sources within Microsoft.
The current privacy settings are sufficient for consumers, according to Microsoft. The confusion is likely caused by an earlier statement of Microsoft. The company previously stated that later this year a Windows 10 Enterprise 10 update will be released that allows disabling of telemetry data collection. This will work through a Group Policy setting or by manual registry edits.
When enabled Windows 10 will no longer be able to contact Microsoft servers including Windows Update and Windows Defender. Therefore enabling is only recommended for companies with alternative ways to get updates, such as through Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) or System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM).
