So, this is the "base" build. I have created it before by leaving updates integration off. No need to re-download for me?
Suppose they want to make sure there are no serious errors. How would they know? Well they would need to compile it early and test it, correct? They need time before the release to work with the OEMs and test everything to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. They could still notice some minor issues and issue a day one patch, but as long as there are not glaring major errors, a final cumulative build could pass the test and be considered good enough.
Yep, they need to be able to get the (dare I say It) an RTM copy to the manufacturers so they can install on their machines. They need a copy stable enough that the manufacturers/suppliers dont get swamped with complaints from customers that the computer doesnt work, I want my money back. it has to be stable enough to work, not result in buyers bringing machines back to sellers wanting a refund, keeping the majority happy. What everyone considers minor glitches can be fixed with updates on a needs basis.
I am flabbergasted by what I just witnessed. Tested the L3 Cache Performance issue (AMD only) on Hyper-V and I couldn't reproduce the performance loss. What the??
I'm trying to think back. I can't remember but one of the Insider builds was before a launch event and it turned out it was the same as the final build. They did a blog post or something saying that if you're an insider you already have the build iirc. I think they might do something similar with the caveat that people will need to update their systems to download the cumulative update.