Key takeaways:
- Microsoft is discontinuing support for third-party printer drivers via Windows Update, shifting towards Printer Support Apps distributed through the Microsoft Store.
- The transition will be implemented gradually over the next few years, with existing drivers still available through the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) until 2026.
- Microsoft will continue to provide security updates for the existing printer driver platform on all supported Windows versions.
Microsoft is set to bid farewell to third-party printer drivers offered via Windows Update. This change, scheduled for a staggered rollout, will let printer manufacturers harness the UWP development framework to create Printer Support Apps available through the Microsoft Store.
Microsoft explained that the upcoming change will eliminate the need for printer manufacturers to distribute their drivers through Windows Update. They will be able to use the UWP development framework to build Printer Support Apps and distribute them via the Microsoft Store. It should bring performance and reliability improvements for Windows users. Microsoft also notes that printer manufacturers will no longer need to build separate solutions for different versions of Windows.
“With the release of Windows 10 21H2, Windows offers inbox support for Mopria compliant printer devices over network and USB interfaces via the Microsoft IPP Class Driver. This removes the need for print device manufacturers to provide their own installers, drivers, utilities, and so on. Device experience customization is now available via the Print Support Apps that are distributed and automatically installed via the Windows Store,” the company wrote.
Microsoft understands that the end of support for legacy v3 and v4 printer drivers would impact many Windows customers. The company plans to roll out the change in a staggered manner in the next few years.
Microsoft has no plans to remove existing features supported by legacy printer drivers
It’s important to note that printer manufacturers will still be able to use the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) to ship existing drivers through Windows Update. However, this capability will no longer be available for new printer drivers starting in 2026. This means that customers will need to use an alternate method to download and install printer drivers on their Windows PCs.
Microsoft will continue to support existing features supported by v3 and v4 printer drivers on Windows 11 and 10 devices. The company also plans to release security updates to the legacy printer driver platform on all supported versions of Windows.