Microsoft will begin the process of ending support for older printer drivers starting in September 2023. New printer drivers will not be released to Windows Update in 2025, but existing drivers will still be able to receive updates.
By 2026, the order of printer drivers will be changed and priority will be given to the Windows IPP inbox class driver. After 2027, third-party printer driver updates will no longer be available through Windows Update, except for security-related patches.
Instead, Microsoft encourages printer manufacturers to develop Printing Support Apps using the UWP framework and distribute them through the Microsoft Store. This change aims to provide a more personalized experience and reduce the burden on manufacturers by allowing a single driver to be used for all supported versions of Windows.
While Microsoft has no plans to disable existing features supported by older drivers, the long-term strategy is clear: Users will need to rely on Printing Support Apps and special universal packages for the latest printer drivers.
Source: Ferra
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