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Device metadata and the Windows Metadata and Internet Services (WMIS) are being retired as of May 2025, and no new packages will be delivered to Windows clients via WMIS. In Partner Center, device metadata experiences cannot be created, modified, or promoted. New device metadata submissions will fail. Existing device metadata packages on Windows clients will remain on the client.
Between now and December 2025, partners can continue to use Partner Center to view and download previously signed device metadata packages.
Driver Package-based Replacement Solution
To continue customizing user-facing information about your physical device, the following guidance includes instructions on how to include this in your driver INF and/or extension INF.
o Driver package container metadata functionality for Windows 11 24H2 clients is available beginning in March 2025.
If you have not already updated your device companion app (DCA) to a modern hardware support app (HSA) or print support app (PSA), see below for additional guidance.
- Hardware Support App (HSA) Steps for Driver Developers – Windows drivers | Microsoft Learn
- Print Support App Design Guide – Windows drivers | Microsoft Learn
FAQ
I am a partner; how do I view and download previously signed device metadata packages?
Log into your Partner Center account and navigate to the device metadata section. Select the previously signed device metadata experience. Expand the details by clicking the down arrow located next to the device metadata package and click on the download signed file link.
What happens to the device metadata packages on my machine?
Existing device metadata packages will remain on your machine.
What happens to the device metadata packages if I update my machine to a new Windows OS?
Existing device metadata packages will be preserved across upgrades when upgrading to Windows 11, version 24H2 or newer.
Additional Questions?
If you have any questions, please reach out to our support team. For details on how to contact support, see Get support for Partner Center dashboard issues – Windows drivers | Microsoft Learn.