The Windows 10 update that disrupts Intel Optane memories

Intel has confirmed reports that Microsoft’s Windows 10 May 2020 Update does not mix well with certain types of Intel Optane memory. Late last week, the company said it had implemented a workaround. According to a report from the Windows Latest site, users have reported compatibility issues with Intel’s Optane memory, in particular the inability to load the iaStorAfsServiceApi.dll file, a malfunction reported by a user via Twitter. In a follow-up post, Microsoft Education confirmed that Intel Optane appears to be incompatible with the Windows 10 May 2020 Update.

In an official communication, the founder explains that he was aware of this problem and is working with Microsoft to find a solution. He clarified that only Optane H10 and M10 memories (marketed for the latter from 2017) were affected by these compatibility problems. The H10 is a hybrid drive that combines Optane with a separate SSD. On one half of the M.2 key, Intel placed 32 GB of Optane memory. The rest of the M.2 is used to house a QLC-based 512GB NAND. Both are independent drives, each with dedicated x2 PCIe Gen 3 bandwidth. For now, the product is only sold to PC makers that they integrate into their laptops.

Problem solving in progress

Windows Latest explains that the installation process removes an Optane memory binding file from the device, but still tries to run it, causing compatibility errors and performance issues. An explanation disputed by Intel: “There is no known functional or performance degradation of Intel’s Optane M10/H10 memory when updating the Windows 10 operating system,” Intel said in a statement. communicated. Windows Latest also clarifies that the bug was reported to Microsoft through the Windows Insider Program, but somehow made it into the build.

It’s unclear if users reporting issues with the May 2020 Update and Optane memory are forcing the update through the “Media Creation” tool, or simply requesting the update. updated through the normal Windows Update process. For now, the May 2020 Update can only be accessed if a user specifically requests it through Windows Update.

And for solving the problem? “We are in communication with Microsoft and we will soon be able to provide an answer. A web page will also allow users to get help, ”explains the Santa Clara firm in its press release. It states that a support document explaining in detail the steps to follow in the event of an issue with the offending Optane memory was available. The solution is to repair the Optane Pinning Explorer extensions, and remove the old extension pack. Microsoft’s Windows 10 May 2020 Update, which brings very little new in scope and functionality, is available upon request for Windows 10 users. However, updating is not possible if users are affected by one of the issues addressed by the support page. At this time, this page does not mention any compatibility issues with Optane memory.