“Can I use Zoom without doing updates? What happens if I don’t update?” was a recent inquiry we received from Anne.

Yes, Anne, you may run Zoom without updating the app.

However, as time marches on, eventually Zoom won’t work optimally. You will not be able to use new features that have been introduced. Plus your device might become vulnerable to privacy and security issues.

Zoom The Enforcer

As of November 5th, 2022 Zoom started enforcing a new minimum version every there months. I asked Microsoft Bing’s new artificial intelligence chat what ‘enforcing’ means.

Bing replied: “In this context ‘enforcing’ means that Zoom will require users to update their Zoom client to a new minimum version every 90 days. This change is designed to help ensure that Zoom users receive the latest Zoom features, as well as any privacy and security enhancements made to the platform.”

I think that the key word here is ‘minimum’ version to operate effectively since in the same paragraph Zoom states: “Zoom will make an effort to support a given version of the client for at least 9-months before it is considered for end of life, at which point users will be prompted to update to the minimum version or higher.”

Prompted? Both Judy and I recently had difficulties running Zoom updates. We both had to roll back to a previous update to avoid flickering screens and unstable video. On both of our computers Zoom forced automatic updates to a version that was not the latest. It too failed to correct the problem. One of the latest Zoom versions has since resolved the issue. That is until the next challenge arises.

Important to Update Programs and Apps

Updating programs and apps is important. It is akin to changing oil in your (gas fueled) car regularly, spring cleaning, annual physicals, etc.

I personally had this problem on March 20th with someone who had not updated Zoom on a Chromebook since Covid started. When he tried to share screen for a presentation for our SAGESofBG group, his microphone automatically muted.

Ref: Zoom Software Quarterly Lifecycle Policy 

Note: Anne was a regular attendee at our free WACI Monday afternoon classes at Senior Planet from AARP. Judy and I also coached her on several private tutoring sessions. I wrote ‘was’ since Anne’s new job now unfortunately interferes with her attending class on Mondays. She still emails us occasionally with her questions.

Always remember…

There is no thing as a stupid question!

We’re here to answer what’s on your mind! Or we’ll research the answer for you.

Contact us for individual computer and internet training. We always offer a free 15-minute consultation (sometimes they last 1.5 hours!). Or use the form in the right sidebar ?.

Interested in joining us on our next WACI Tips Group on Mondays at Senior Planet from AARP? Details on our Calendar page:https://abncparties.com/calendar/.

Learn more about our classes and events for Boomers and senior adults for your senior center, independent senior living facility, senior group, park district or library.

Michael