Microsoft provides new and updated features for model-driven apps on a regular basis. Until recently, those feature updates were rolled out in two release waves called the semi-annual release waves, which is the default setting for all of the existing apps and environments.
The new monthly channel option enables features which are Generally Available to be turned on each month instead of having to wait for the semi-annual release. The monthly channel recommended use will provide users with new features only once a month on a predetermined schedule, while the semi-annual channel is recommended for users within organizations that required more training and testing before rolling out of new features.
Previously you were able to set the release channel for Model-driven apps in the Admin Center, by going to the behavior of a particular environment and setting the release channel to Semi-annual channel or Monthly channel.
Within the maker portal you can set the App release channel for each individual app to either Auto, Monthly channel or Semi-annual channel. Model-driven apps that are configured with a App release channel of Auto, will start using the monthly channel starting with the 2024 release wave 1 for Power Platform environments and the semi-annual channel for Microsoft Dynamics 365 apps. This is the direction in shifting from the semi-annual channel to the monthly channel so that users can be provided with enhancements on a more regular basis.
Starting with the 2024 release wave 2, all apps configured with Auto will be on the Monthly channel (both Dynamics and Power Platform). If you want to continue receiving updates in the Semi-annual channel, you will have to explicitly select Semi-annual after prior to the 2024 release wave 2.
As an end user running the app, if you need to check if you are on the monthly or semi-annual channel, you can check that by going into Settings and About in your model-driven app as shown below.
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