Last week we learned that Microsoft has designated Windows 10 Version 1511 (Build 10586.164) as the Current Branch for Business (CBB).
Microsoft designates certain builds of Windows 10 as CBB overtime so that enterprises and other large organization can depend on a proven and stable build of Windows 10 to deploy within their network.
While stability is critical, testing is also an important element of preparing for new features in future builds of Windows 10 and it seems Microsoft is very interested in letting customers know about those future plans well ahead of time.
A Windows 10 For Business Roadmap page surfaced late last week on the Microsoft website and details several upcoming features that, at least to my knowledge, have not been mentioned publicly before.
The site is broken down into five categories including features that have become recently available, in public preview, in development, canceled or archived.
There are no items listed in the canceled or archived sections and the first two contain items that are already in Windows 10 or are being previewed in the Windows Insider Program.
However, that middle listing of in development, contains quite a few items that will be of interest as you keep an eye on Windows 10 and its continued progression.
Here is a quick break down of the features from that in development roadmap:
Use Companion Devices to unlock your Windows PC
Use your Microsoft Band 2, or other devices that integrates with the Windows 10 Companion Device Framework (CFD), as companion device for Microsoft Passport based authentication. With this a device like the Microsoft Band 2 or other third party devices, they can become an external second factor of authentication which can be used to unlock your Windows 10 PCs.
Use your phone to unlock your Windows PC
Use your Windows Phone or Android phone as remote credential store which can be used to unlock any of your Windows 10 PCs and authenticate with apps and services that support Windows Hello and Microsoft Passport based authentication.
Enhancements to Microsoft Passport
Enhancements to Microsoft Passport improve its functionality in enterprise environments.
Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection
Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection is a new service that will help enterprises detect, investigate, and respond to advanced attacks on their networks.
Remote Display Experience
Remote display experience puts a display on every “display less” device, so users can seamlessly control Windows 10 IoT Core applications from any Windows 10 desktop PC, tablet, or phone*. In addition, the technology allows Windows 10 IoT Core devices to use remote sensor readings from any connected Windows 10 device.
PC to PC casting
Cast your Windows experience from one PC to another PC.
Picture in Picture
Monitor media content while focusing on other tasks.
Start menu updates
Start menu updates give more control to users, make it easier to access all apps, and provides additional optimization for touch input (i.e., tablet mode).
Projecting on PCs
Instead of only projecting a Continuum for phone experience on unconnected monitors, a Continuum-compatible phone can connect to monitors/screens that are connected to Windows 10 PCs. Connection above the lock screen, as well as behind the lock screen, are supported.
Laptop-like accessory support
Get support for a new accessory form factor that looks like a lightweight and low-cost laptop, but without any CPU or OS. When paired with a Continuum-compatible phone, it will allow you to use your phone like a laptop.
Touch screen support
Touch input will be supported when connecting a Continuum-compatible phone to a touch monitor.
Microsoft Edge - Web Notifications
With Microsoft Edge, you can choose to get notifications from your favorite websites, even when you are not browsing. For example, get notifications for when friends post on your Facebook page.
Enhancements to Azure AD Join
Enhancements to Azure AD Join improve its functionality in enterprise environments.
While it is great to get a look into the future there is a warning at the bottom of the page in bold letters:
The information on this page is for informational purposes only, is subject to change at any time without notice, and may not be applicable to customers in all geographies.
So, while some of these features might not make it into Windows 10, a creative effort is being made to create the best possible options for users across the board.
I am also sure that Microsoft will provide Group Policies to help you manage which features eventually get enabled on your own networks.
But, wait...there's probably more so be sure to follow me on Twitter and Google+.
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