Win Update KB5070311 Windows 11 Cumulative Update Preview build 26100.7309 (24H2) and 26200.7309 (25H2) - Dec. 1


UPDATE 12/09:


 Microsoft Support:

December 1, 2025 - KB5070311 (OS Builds 26200.7309 and 26100.7309) Preview​

This non-security update for Windows 11, version 25H2 and 24H2 (KB5070311), improves functionality, performance, and reliability. To learn more about differences between security updates, optional non-security preview updates, Out-of-band (OOB) updates, and continuous innovation, see Windows monthly updates explained. For information on Windows update terminology, see the different types of Windows software updates.

To view the latest updates about this release, visit the Windows release health dashboard or the update history page for Windows 11, version 24H2 and version 25H2.

Announcements and messages

This section provides key notifications related to this release, including announcements, change logs, and end-of-support notices.

Simplified Windows update titles​

A new, standardized title format makes Windows updates easier to read and understand. It improves clarity by removing unnecessary technical elements like platform architecture. Key identifiers such as date prefixes, the KB number, and build or version are retained to help you quickly recognize each update.

For more details, see Simplified Windows Update titles or its accompanying blog post.

December servicing update schedule​

Due to reduced operations during the Western holidays in December and New Year's Day, Microsoft will not release a non-security preview update in December 2025. The monthly security update will still be available as scheduled. Regular monthly servicing, including both security updates and non-security preview updates, will resume in January 2026.

Windows Secure Boot certificate expiration​

Important: Secure Boot certificates used by most Windows devices are set to expire starting in June 2026. This might affect the ability of certain personal and business devices to boot securely if not updated in time. To avoid disruption, we recommend reviewing the guidance and taking action to update certificates in advance. For details and preparation steps, see Windows Secure Boot certificate expiration and CA updates.


Change log​

Change dateChange description
January 20, 2026Update: These features, originally documented for the December 2025 non‑security update (KB5070311), have been removed from documentation. They are planned for a future release.

[Widgets] You can choose a default dashboard in Widget Board settings. When live weather is showing, the Widget Board opens the first dashboard in your navigation bar instead of the most recently used one, making the experience consistent. To set your default dashboard, open the full-page Widgets Settings by selecting Settings in the navigation bar, then move your preferred dashboard to the top.

[Widgets] Dashboard icons in the Widget navigation bar now show numbers that correspond to the number of alerts from that dashboard. Navigation bar badges clear automatically when you leave a dashboard, making it easy to track what’s new.
December 18, 2025Update: This feature, originally documented for the December 2025 non‑security update (KB5070311), has been removed from documentation. It’s planned for a future release.

[Windows Search] New! You can now find your AI-categorized photos from the Microsoft Photos app using Windows Search with semantic search.
December 12, 2025Update: This feature is included in the December 2025 non-security update (KB5070311).

[File Explorer] New! The Recommended section in File Explorer now makes it easier to access files you frequently use or recently downloaded. To view this section on the homepage, turn on the Show Recommended section setting in File Explorer > Options. This feature is now available to all users, including those signed in with personal Microsoft accounts.
December 12, 2025Update: This feature introduced in the December 2025 non-security update (KB5070311) is no longer available in this release.

[Taskbar & System Tray] New! Animations for app groups on the taskbar have been updated. When you hover over app groups on the taskbar, you can see the preview transition as you slide between apps.
December 9, 2025Update: This feature is included in the December 2025 non-security update (KB5070311).

[Keyboard] New! The AltGr layer is now enabled for the Arabic 101 keyboard layout. The left Alt key continues to function as before, while the right Alt key acts as a modifier to access additional symbols. The first new symbol mapped to AltGr on the Arabic 101 layout is the Saudi Riyal currency symbol (AltGr+S). The Saudi Riyal currency symbol is also available on the touch keyboard’s symbols page and the expressive input panels currency tab. Users who switch languages with Alt+Shift can continue to use the left Alt+Shift or the general shortcut Windows logo key+Spacebar. Arabic 102 and Arabic 102 AZERTY layouts are updated similarly.

Highlights

This update is available through two release phases: gradual rollout and normal rollout. A gradual rollout delivers an update in phases, so features reach devices over time instead of all at once, meaning availability varies by device. A normal rollout is the broad release to all eligible devices at the same time, usually when it reaches general availability (GA).

Gradual rollout

The following summary outlines features from Copilot experiences and AI-powered Windows 11 PC experiences, along with improvements and fixes. The bold text within the brackets indicates the item or area of the change.

For more info on the different AI experiences, see aka.ms/copilotpluspcs.

Copilot+ PCs experiences​

This section highlights updates and improvements unique to Copilot+ PCs, focusing on AI-powered features, performance enhancements, and user experience optimizations.
  • [Agent in Settings]
    • New! The search results menu displays more available results, making it easier to quickly find and modify your settings. A scroll bar lets you view all search results.

    • New! Recommended settings now makes changes faster by showing an inline agent option for recently modified settings.

    • New! A dialog now appears when settings can’t be adjusted further. It explains why and provides an option to modify the settings as needed.
  • [Click to Do]
    • New! 1 The Click to Do context menu now has a streamlined design that makes it easier to access frequently used actions such as Copy, Save, Share, and Open. You can quickly find what you need.
    • New! 1 Whenever a large image or table appears on your screen, the context menu automatically opens so you can quickly access actions and view results.

  • [Camera] New! You can use Windows Studio Effects, which provides AI-powered camera enhancements, on an additional camera such as a USB webcam or your laptop’s built-in rear camera. To get started, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Cameras, and select your preferred camera from the connected cameras list. Then, open Advanced camera options and turn on Use Windows Studio Effects. After you turn it on, you can adjust Studio Effects from the camera settings page or the quick settings menu in the taskbar.

  • [File Explorer]
    • New! The File Explorer Search Box placeholder text has been updated to highlight the enhanced Windows Search experiences.
    • New! File Explorer Home on-hover actions for faster file management (previously released in KB5067036) is now available for enterprise customers.
  • [Windows Search] New! You can now find your AI-categorized photos from the Microsoft Photos app using Windows Search with semantic search.

1 Functionality will vary by device and market.

Windows 11 PC experiences​

This section highlights new features and enhancements for Windows 11 PCs, including AI-powered capabilities, continuous innovation, and performance improvements.

Improvements and fixes
  • [Advanced Settings] New! You can now turn on Virtual Workspaces in Advanced Settings. Virtual Workspaces allow you to enable or disable virtual environments such as Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox. To access Virtual Workspaces, go to Settings > Systems > Advanced.

  • [Desktop Spotlight] New! When Windows Spotlight is set as your desktop background (Settings > Personalization > Background), the context menu now includes two options: Learn more about this background and Next desktop background.

  • [File Explorer]
    • New! File Explorer now offers a more consistent dark mode experience. Key actions such as copy, move, and delete dialogs have been updated in both default and expanded views. Progress bars and chart views now align with the dark theme to improve readability. Confirmation dialogs for actions like skip, override, and file selection, along with multiple error dialogs, have also been refreshed for a cohesive look.
    • New! The simplified File Explorer context menu for easier navigation. Common actions like Share, Copy, and Move now appear in a single organized menu. This change removes clutter and makes commands easier to find, whether you use a mouse, keyboard, or assistive technology. This change will initially be available to a small group of devices as we evaluate the best approach.
    • New! The Recommended section in File Explorer now makes it easier to access files you frequently use or recently downloaded. To view this section on the homepage, turn on the Show Recommended section setting in File Explorer > Options. This feature is now available to all users, including those signed in with personal Microsoft accounts.
    • Fixed: File Explorer might unexpectedly not show thumbnails for video files containing certain EXIF metadata.
    • Fixed: A toolbar might sometimes appear unexpectedly in File Explorer.
    • Fixed: When you right-click a file, the app icon next to the Open option might appear generic instead of showing the default app for that file type.
  • [Gaming] New! The full screen experience (FSE) is now available on more Windows 11 handheld devices after its initial launch on ASUS ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. FSE gives you a console-style interface with the Xbox app, making handheld gaming clean and distraction-free. It improves performance by minimizing background tasks, so gameplay stays smooth and responsive. To turn it on, go to Settings > Gaming > Full screen experience, and set Xbox as your home app. You can open FSE from Task View or Game Bar, or configure your handheld to enter full screen experience on startup.

  • [Input] New! Pens that support haptic feedback—small vibrations that simulate touch—now provide tactile responses when you interact with the Windows interface. For example, you might feel vibrations when hovering over the close button or when snapping and resizing windows.
  • [Keyboard]
    • New! Keyboard backlight performance has improved on supported HID-compliant keyboards. Compatible keyboards display keys clearly in low-light environments, and the backlight adjusts to help conserve power.
    • New! The AltGr layer is now enabled for the Arabic 101 keyboard layout. The left Alt key continues to function as before, while the right Alt key acts as a modifier to access additional symbols. The first new symbol mapped to AltGr on the Arabic 101 layout is the Saudi Riyal currency symbol (AltGr+S). The Saudi Riyal currency symbol is also available on the touch keyboard’s symbols page and the expressive input panels currency tab. Users who switch languages with Alt+Shift can continue to use the left Alt+Shift or the general shortcut Windows logo key+Spacebar. Arabic 102 and Arabic 102 AZERTY layouts are updated similarly.
  • [Mobile Device Settings] New! You can add and manage your mobile devices in Settings under Bluetooth & Devices › Mobile Devices. On this page you can manage features such as using your device as a connected camera or accessing your device’s files in File Explorer.

  • [OneDrive] New! The new OneDrive icon now appears in Settings > Accounts > Homepage.
  • [Recovery] New! Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) now runs a one-time scan on PCs with settings quick machine recovery and automatically check for solutions are both turned on. If a fix isn’t available immediately, QMR directs you to the best recovery options to get your PC running again

  • [Settings]
    • New! Keyboard settings for "character repeat delay and rate", and "cursor blink rate", have moved from Control Panel to Settings. You can now find "character repeat delay and rate" under Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard, and "cursor blink rate" under Settings > Accessibility > Text cursor.

    • New! About in Settings now has an updated layout that organizes device details and related options in one place. You can quickly access features such as Storage settings for faster navigation.
    • Fixed: Settings might become unresponsive when attempting to navigate to the Network & Internet section.
    • Fixed: The search bar in Settings might become overlapped with the minimum and maximum buttons in the title bar.
  • [Taskbar & System Tray]
    • New! You can now share an open app window with Copilot directly from the taskbar. When you hover over an open app, you’ll see the option to share its window with Copilot—similar to sharing in Microsoft Teams. Hover over the app icon, select Share with Copilot to start a conversation. Copilot Vision will analyze the content you shared and provide insights based on what’s displayed in that app.

    • Fixed: The Automatically hide the taskbar setting might unexpectedly turn off, after seeing a message saying a toolbar is already hidden on this side of your screen.
    • Fixed: Voice access doesn't work correctly when attempting to interact with the taskbar (calling out a number might not invoke that item).
    • Fixed: The taskbar icons might automatically scale to be smaller, although there is enough room left without scaling changes.
  • [Widgets]
    • New! You can choose a default dashboard in Widget Board settings. When live weather is showing, the Widget Board opens the first dashboard in your navigation bar instead of the most recently used one, making the experience consistent. To set your default dashboard, open the full-page Widgets Settings by selecting Settings in the navigation bar, then move your preferred dashboard to the top.

    • New! Dashboard icons in the Widget navigation bar now show numbers that correspond to the number of alerts from that dashboard. Navigation bar badges clear automatically when you leave a dashboard, making it easy to track what’s new.

  • [Windows Share]
    • New! 2 Drag tray now supports multi-file sharing, shows more relevant apps, and makes it easy to move files to a chosen folder.
    • New! 2 You can now turn drag tray on or off from Settings > System > Nearby sharing.

    • New! 3 You can share OneDrive files through other apps. The options appear under Share using when you select the Copy link. You must be signed into your Microsoft account.

  • [Display and Graphics]
    • Improved: Performance has been improved when apps query monitors for their full list of supported modes. When this happens it could previously lead to a momentary stutter on very high-resolution monitors. This work should help prevent and reduce stuttering in these scenarios.
    • Fixed: All-in-one PCs might experience issues with their brightness slider, where it unexpectedly reverts to the original brightness when interacting with it.
    • Fixed: Recently certain games might display the message Unsupported graphics card detected, although a supported graphics card is used.
  • [Game Pass] References to Game Pass in Settings are now modified to reflect updated branding and benefits.
  • [Start menu] Improved: For users with the new Start menu, the Windows Search panel now matches the new Start menu in size. This update aims to create a smoother transition when searching.
  • [Lock and Sign-in Screens]
    • Fixed: It might be very slow the first time when signing into a new account.
    • Fixed: When your lock screen is set to slide show, there might be a memory leak. Memory leaks can lead to performance or reliability issues over time.
  • [Smart cards] Fixed: You might unexpectedly see STATUS_NOT_SUPPORTED (0xc00000bb) during sign on when using ECC Smart Card Logon Credential.
  • [Prism] Windows on Arm devices now have emulation support for applications that use AVX and AVX2, as well as related extensions such as BMI, FMA, and F16C.
2 This feature is gradually rolling out, and availability will vary by device and market. Drag tray might not be available to all devices yet. See KB5058499 for more information about the drag tray feature in Windows Share.

3 Feature availability depends on your device and market. This feature isn’t available in the European Economic Area.

Normal rollout

This update is available through two release phases: gradual rollout and normal rollout. A gradual rollout delivers an update in phases, so features reach devices over time instead of all at once, meaning availability varies by device. A normal rollout is the broad release to all eligible devices at the same time, usually when it reaches general availability (GA).

This non-security update includes quality improvements. The following summary outlines key issues addressed by the KB update after you install it. Also, included are available new features. The bold text within the brackets indicates the item or area of the change.
  • [Notifications] Fixed: After the latest updates, explorer.exe might stop responding (leading to the taskbar becoming unresponsive) after certain notifications.
  • [Search indexer] Fixed: This update addresses an issue where File Explorer might not search certain SMB (Server Message Block) shares after the latest updates.
  • [Security] Fixed: This update addresses an issue that affects Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS). LSASS could become unstable due to an access violation.
  • [Settings] Fixed: This update addresses an issue when Settings might unexpectedly close when navigating to Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone, Camera, or Location pages after the latest updates.
If you installed earlier updates, your device downloads and installs only the new updates contained in this package.

AI Components

This release updates the following AI components:

AI ComponentVersion
Image Search1.2511.1196.0
Content Extraction1.2511.1196.0
Semantic Analysis1.2511.1196.0
Settings Model1.2511.1196.0

Windows 11 servicing stack update (KB5071142)- 26100.7295

This update makes quality improvements to the servicing stack, which is the component that installs Windows updates. Servicing stack updates (SSU) ensure that you have a robust and reliable servicing stack so that your devices can receive and install Microsoft updates. To learn more about SSUs, see Simplifying on-premises deployment of servicing stack updates.

Known issues in this update

1 File Explorer might flash with a white screen in dark mode

Symptoms

After installing KB5070311, you might experience issues when opening File Explorer in dark mode. The window might briefly display a blank white screen before loading files and folders. This can also occur when you:
  • Navigate to or from Home or Gallery (including launching to Home)
  • Create a new tab
  • Turn the Details pane on or off
  • Select More details while copying files
Workaround

This issue is addressed in KB5072033.

2 Password icon might be missing or invisible in the lock screen sign-in options

Symptoms

After installing the August 2025 non-security preview update (KB5064081) or later updates, you might notice that the password icon is not visible in the sign-in options on the lock screen. If you hover over the space where the icon should appear, you’ll see that the password button is still available. Select this placeholder to open the password text box and enter your password. After entering your password, you can sign in normally.

Individuals using Windows Home or Pro editions on personal devices are very unlikely to experience this issue. This issue primarily affects enterprise or managed IT environments.

Workaround

This issue is mitigated using Known Issue Rollback (KIR).

For enterprise-managed devices managed by IT departments that have installed the affected update and encountered this issue, IT administrators can resolve it by installing and configuring the Group policy listed below. The special Group Policy can be found in Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > <Group Policy name listed below>.

For information on deploying and configuring these special Group Policy, please see How to use Group Policy to deploy a Known Issue Rollback.

Group Policy downloads with Group Policy name:
Important: You will need to install and configure the Group Policy for your version of Windows to resolve this issue. You will also need to restart your device(s) to apply the group policy setting. Note that the Group Policy will temporarily disable the change causing this issue.

We are working on a resolution in a future Windows update and will provide more information when it is available.

3 Mirror networking on Windows Subsystem for Linux might fail

Symptoms

After installing the October 2025 Windows non-security update (KB5067036), released on October 28, 2025, or a later update, mirrored networking mode in Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) might cause issues with some third-party VPNs. When this issue occurs, you might see a “No route to host” error, even though the Windows host can still access the same destinations. As a result, you might be unable to access corporate resources over VPN and experience failures with VPN-dependent services.

This issue happens because the VPN application's virtual interface doesn’t respond to ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) requests. Reports indicate that Cisco Secure Client (formerly Cisco AnyConnect) and OpenVPN are affected.

Note: Home users of Windows Home or Pro editions are unlikely to experience this issue. It primarily affects connectivity to enterprise resources over VPN, including DirectAccess.

Workaround

This issue is addressed in KB5074109.

4 RemoteApp sessions might fail to start on Azure Virtual Desktop

Symptoms

Note:
Individuals using Windows Home or Pro editions on personal devices are very unlikely to experience this issue as Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is more commonly used in enterprise environments.

After installing the November 2025 Windows non-security update (KB5070311) or later updates, you might experience RemoteApp connection failures in Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) environments. Full desktop sessions aren’t affected.

Workaround

This issue is addressed in KB5074109.

How to get this update

Before you install this update

Microsoft combines the latest servicing stack update (SSU) for your operating system with the latest cumulative update (LCU). For general information about SSUs, see Servicing stack updates and Servicing Stack Updates (SSU): Frequently Asked Questions.

Install this update

To install this update, use one of the following Windows and Microsoft release channels.

AvailableNext Step
Included
Open Start > Settings Update & Security > Windows Update. In the Optional updates available area, you will find the link to download and install available updates.
Check for optional updates
Yes 4Before you install this update
To get the standalone package(s) for this update, go to the Microsoft Update Catalog website. This KB contains one or more MSU files that require installation in a specific order.

Install this update

Method 1: Install all MSU files together

Download all MSU files for KB5070311 from Microsoft Update Catalog and place them in the same folder (for example, C:/Packages). Use Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM.exe) to install the target update. DISM will use the folder specified in PackagePath to discover and install one or more prerequisite MSU files as needed.

Updating Windows PC
To apply this update to a running Windows PC, run the following command from an elevated Command Prompt:
DISM /Online /Add-Package /PackagePath:c:\packages\Windows11.0-KB5070311-x64.msu

Or, run the following command from an elevated Windows PowerShell prompt:
Add-WindowsPackage -Online -PackagePath "c:\packages\Windows11.0-KB5070311-x64.msu"

Or use Windows Update Standalone Installer to install the target update.

Updating Windows Installation media
To apply this update to Windows Installation media, see Update Windows installation media with Dynamic Update.

Note: When downloading other Dynamic Update packages, ensure they match the same month as this KB. If the SafeOS Dynamic Update or Setup Dynamic Update is not available for the same month as this KB, use the most recently published version of each.

To add this update to a mounted image, run the following command from an elevated Command Prompt:
DISM /Image:mountdir /Add-Package /PackagePath:Windows11.0-KB5070311-x64.msu

Or, run the following command from an elevated Windows PowerShell prompt:
Add-WindowsPackage -Path "c:\offline" -PackagePath "Windows11.0-KB5070311-x64.msu" -PreventPending

Method 2: Install each MSU file individually, in order
Download and install each MSU file individually either using DISM or Windows Update Standalone Installer in the following order:
  1. windows11.0-kb5043080-x64_953449672073f8fb99badb4cc6d5d7849b9c83e8.msu
  2. windows11.0-kb5070311-x64_199ed7806a74fe78e3b0ef4f2073760000f71972.msu

4 This latest cumulative update includes updates for AI components. Even though the AI component updates are included in the update, the AI components are only applicable to Windows Copilot+ PCs and will not install on Windows PC or Windows Server.

If you want to remove the LCU

To remove the LCU after installing the combined SSU and LCU package, use the DISM/Remove-Package command line option with the LCU package name as the argument. You can find the package name by using this command: DISM /online /get-packages.

Running Windows Update Standalone Installer (wusa.exe) with the /uninstall switch on the combined package will not work because the combined package contains the SSU. You cannot remove the SSU from the system after installation.

File information

For a list of the files provided in this update, download the file information for cumulative update 5070311.

For a list of the files provided in the servicing stack update, download the file information for the SSU (KB5071142) - version 26100.7295.



 Source:



Check Windows Updates


UUP Dump:

64-bit ISO download:

ARM64 ISO download:

 
Last edited:
StartAllBack..., but it's not winver, it's this:

Code:
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\ Windows Version]
"Position"="Bottom"
"Icon"="imageres.dll,-5308"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\ Windows Version\command]
"DelegateExecute"="{20E8B2FE-7568-46AE-A0DB-76B7F469B92D}"
That doesn't work on mine. It's still white.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    HP
    CPU
    Gen 11 Core i5
    Memory
    16GB
Verified on several machines with this Build.
It's not just this Build, it's been crap for ages!
That's what happens when they try to get Explorer to load inside of an Electron app! So stupid!
Explorer's been fine for decades, why feck with it!


View attachment ExCut.mp4
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    ASUS ROG Strix
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    ASUS VivoBook
I already had this update installed but WU insists of trying to install it again and it fails. Repair install underway!
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Enterprise 25H2 26200 7462
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Custom Build
    CPU
    Intel XEON E5-2699 v3
    Motherboard
    ASUS X99-A
    Memory
    64GB Teamgroup UD4-3600
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti
    Sound Card
    Integrated
    Monitor(s) Displays
    ACER X34 Predator
    Screen Resolution
    3440 x 1440
    Hard Drives
    Crucial CT1000P 3P SSD8 1TB
    Crucial CT1000 BX500 SSD 1TB
    PSU
    GameMax Pro
    Case
    Fractal Design
    Cooling
    Corsair H110iGT + 6 140mm Fans
    Keyboard
    Corsair K4
    Mouse
    G-Skill G502
    Internet Speed
    300MBs
    Browser
    Chrome
    Antivirus
    OEM
    Other Info
    ASUS RT-AC87U Router
  • Operating System
    25H2 26200.5074
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    ASUS X555LA
    Memory
    8GB
    Browser
    Chrome
    Antivirus
    OEM
It's not just this Build, it's been crap for ages!
That's what happens when they try to get Explorer to load inside of an Electron app! So stupid!
Explorer's been fine for decades, why feck with it!


View attachment 155276
I don't see that white flash on Canary 28000.1199.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 8930
    CPU
    Intel I9-9900K
    Memory
    64GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA RTX 2060
    Sound Card
    NVIDIA High Definition Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    4k Samsung
    Screen Resolution
    3840 x 2160
    Hard Drives
    512GB NVMe, ADATA SU 800, 2TB HDD

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    ASUS ROG Strix
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    ASUS VivoBook
I do. Canary is what I filmed that on!
Not here, I see it also on Dev 26220.7271, but not on Canary.

With 28000.1199 in Dark mode, I see it flashing a black empty window not white. 🤷‍♂️
Checked the same behavior on 2 machines.

Same machines and same hardware show the problem Explorer white flash with Builds 26200.7309 and 26220.7271. 🤷‍♂️
 
Last edited:

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 8930
    CPU
    Intel I9-9900K
    Memory
    64GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA RTX 2060
    Sound Card
    NVIDIA High Definition Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    4k Samsung
    Screen Resolution
    3840 x 2160
    Hard Drives
    512GB NVMe, ADATA SU 800, 2TB HDD
Installed ok here nothing unusual occurring.
SFC ran clean.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Home built
    CPU
    Intel i5 9400
    Motherboard
    Gigabyte B365M D3SH WIFI
    Memory
    16GB tforce
    Graphics Card(s)
    GeForce GTX950 SSC
    Monitor(s) Displays
    View Sonic VX 3216 32" curved screen
    Screen Resolution
    1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    Crucial 250GB, Western Digital 6TB
    PSU
    MSI MAG A1000GL PCIE5
    Cooling
    standard Intel fan
    Keyboard
    Microsoft 3000 version 2
    Mouse
    Microsoft 3000
    Internet Speed
    symmetrical 50Mb fiber feed
    Browser
    Edge and Chrome
    Antivirus
    using Windows Defender
Yes, it opens an empty window briefly before it is populated, it happens with Light and Dark mode.
It is most noticeable when using Dark mode because the empty window flashes white instead of black as it should.
Verified on several machines with this Build.
Not bothering me, I can wait for a fix. 😉
I wonder if my not seeing it has anything to do with my using an OLED screen.
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 16 DA16260
    CPU
    Intel Series 3 Core Ultra X9 388H
    Memory
    64GB LPDDR5x 9600 MT/s
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Arc graphics B390 Panther Lake
    Monitor(s) Displays
    16" 3.2K Tandem OLED Infinity Edge
    Screen Resolution
    3200 x 2000 16:10 236 PPI
    Hard Drives
    1 Terabyte M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    NPU delivering 67 TOPS
    Microsoft 365 subscription
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Microsoft Sysinternals Suite
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot
    Dell Support Assist
    Dell Command | Update
    Macrium Reflect X subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Microsoft Surface Laptop 7
    CPU
    Snapdragon® X Elite (12 Core) with Hexagon NPU delivering 45 TOPS
    Memory
    32GB LPDDR5x 8448 MT/s
    Graphics card(s)
    Integrated Adreno GPU
    Sound Card
    Omnisonic speakers with Dolby Atmos spatial sound
    Monitor(s) Displays
    13.8″ PixelSense Flow touchscreen 120 Hz 600 NIT
    Screen Resolution
    2304 × 1536 (201 PPI), 3:2 aspect ratio
    Hard Drives
    1 TB PCIe NVMe Gen 4 SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    Microsoft 365 subscription (Office)
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio 2026
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Microsoft Sysinternals
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot
I wonder if my not seeing it has anything to do with my using an OLED screen.
It does! My System Two uses an IPS screen. The obnoxious white screen is there on the IPS screen! It is nonexistent on my System One with the OLED screen!
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 16 DA16260
    CPU
    Intel Series 3 Core Ultra X9 388H
    Memory
    64GB LPDDR5x 9600 MT/s
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Arc graphics B390 Panther Lake
    Monitor(s) Displays
    16" 3.2K Tandem OLED Infinity Edge
    Screen Resolution
    3200 x 2000 16:10 236 PPI
    Hard Drives
    1 Terabyte M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    NPU delivering 67 TOPS
    Microsoft 365 subscription
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Microsoft Sysinternals Suite
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot
    Dell Support Assist
    Dell Command | Update
    Macrium Reflect X subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Microsoft Surface Laptop 7
    CPU
    Snapdragon® X Elite (12 Core) with Hexagon NPU delivering 45 TOPS
    Memory
    32GB LPDDR5x 8448 MT/s
    Graphics card(s)
    Integrated Adreno GPU
    Sound Card
    Omnisonic speakers with Dolby Atmos spatial sound
    Monitor(s) Displays
    13.8″ PixelSense Flow touchscreen 120 Hz 600 NIT
    Screen Resolution
    2304 × 1536 (201 PPI), 3:2 aspect ratio
    Hard Drives
    1 TB PCIe NVMe Gen 4 SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    Microsoft 365 subscription (Office)
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio 2026
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Microsoft Sysinternals
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot
It does! My System Two uses an IPS screen. The obnoxious white screen is there on the IPS screen! It is nonexistent on my System One with the OLED screen!
I don't have an OLED screen. 🤷‍♂️
I see the problem on all my machines, except with Canary Build 28000.1199.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 8930
    CPU
    Intel I9-9900K
    Memory
    64GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA RTX 2060
    Sound Card
    NVIDIA High Definition Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    4k Samsung
    Screen Resolution
    3840 x 2160
    Hard Drives
    512GB NVMe, ADATA SU 800, 2TB HDD
I don't have an OLED screen. 🤷‍♂️
I see the problem on all my machines, except with Canary Build 28000.1199.
So it is fixed in your beta build! Great! Something to look forward to.
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 16 DA16260
    CPU
    Intel Series 3 Core Ultra X9 388H
    Memory
    64GB LPDDR5x 9600 MT/s
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Arc graphics B390 Panther Lake
    Monitor(s) Displays
    16" 3.2K Tandem OLED Infinity Edge
    Screen Resolution
    3200 x 2000 16:10 236 PPI
    Hard Drives
    1 Terabyte M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    NPU delivering 67 TOPS
    Microsoft 365 subscription
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Microsoft Sysinternals Suite
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot
    Dell Support Assist
    Dell Command | Update
    Macrium Reflect X subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Microsoft Surface Laptop 7
    CPU
    Snapdragon® X Elite (12 Core) with Hexagon NPU delivering 45 TOPS
    Memory
    32GB LPDDR5x 8448 MT/s
    Graphics card(s)
    Integrated Adreno GPU
    Sound Card
    Omnisonic speakers with Dolby Atmos spatial sound
    Monitor(s) Displays
    13.8″ PixelSense Flow touchscreen 120 Hz 600 NIT
    Screen Resolution
    2304 × 1536 (201 PPI), 3:2 aspect ratio
    Hard Drives
    1 TB PCIe NVMe Gen 4 SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    Microsoft 365 subscription (Office)
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio 2026
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Microsoft Sysinternals
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot
So it is fixed in your beta build! Great! Something to look forward to.
Not fixed on Beta either, only on Canary.


 
Last edited:

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 8930
    CPU
    Intel I9-9900K
    Memory
    64GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA RTX 2060
    Sound Card
    NVIDIA High Definition Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    4k Samsung
    Screen Resolution
    3840 x 2160
    Hard Drives
    512GB NVMe, ADATA SU 800, 2TB HDD
The technical difference is that OLED screens are self‑emissive (each pixel generates its own light), while IPS screens are LCD panels that require a backlight.
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 16 DA16260
    CPU
    Intel Series 3 Core Ultra X9 388H
    Memory
    64GB LPDDR5x 9600 MT/s
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Arc graphics B390 Panther Lake
    Monitor(s) Displays
    16" 3.2K Tandem OLED Infinity Edge
    Screen Resolution
    3200 x 2000 16:10 236 PPI
    Hard Drives
    1 Terabyte M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    NPU delivering 67 TOPS
    Microsoft 365 subscription
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Microsoft Sysinternals Suite
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot
    Dell Support Assist
    Dell Command | Update
    Macrium Reflect X subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Microsoft Surface Laptop 7
    CPU
    Snapdragon® X Elite (12 Core) with Hexagon NPU delivering 45 TOPS
    Memory
    32GB LPDDR5x 8448 MT/s
    Graphics card(s)
    Integrated Adreno GPU
    Sound Card
    Omnisonic speakers with Dolby Atmos spatial sound
    Monitor(s) Displays
    13.8″ PixelSense Flow touchscreen 120 Hz 600 NIT
    Screen Resolution
    2304 × 1536 (201 PPI), 3:2 aspect ratio
    Hard Drives
    1 TB PCIe NVMe Gen 4 SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    Microsoft 365 subscription (Office)
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio 2026
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Microsoft Sysinternals
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    MS Surface book 3/1900
    CPU
    Quad-core 10th Gen Intel® Core™ i7-1065G7 Processor
    Memory
    32g DDR4 SDRAM
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q Design 4GB GD/Intel® Iris™ Plus GraphicsDR5 graphics memory
    Monitor(s) Displays
    13.5” PixelSense™ Display Resolution: 3000 x 2000 (267 PPI) Aspect ratio: 3:2 Contrast ratio: 1600:1 Touch: 10 point multi-touch G5
    Screen Resolution
    ‎3000 x 2000 pixels
    Hard Drives
    512g SSD
The technical difference is that OLED screens are self‑emissive (each pixel generates its own light), while IPS screens are LCD panels that require a backlight.
That does not explain the different behavior with File explorer flashing a white empty window.
Perhaps it is a timing issue with the duration of the initial empty file explorer window that makes it unnoticeable. 😎🤷‍♂️
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 8930
    CPU
    Intel I9-9900K
    Memory
    64GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA RTX 2060
    Sound Card
    NVIDIA High Definition Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    4k Samsung
    Screen Resolution
    3840 x 2160
    Hard Drives
    512GB NVMe, ADATA SU 800, 2TB HDD
1764712952735.webp
Hmm, I just got this last night.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Skytech / Central Computers
    CPU
    AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D 16-Core Processor
    Motherboard
    Gigabyte X870E AORUS PRO ICE
    Memory
    64GB Corsair DDR5 RAM @ 6000 MT/s
    Graphics Card(s)
    ASUS TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 4090 OC Edition 24GB GDDR6X
    Sound Card
    Sound Blaster Audigy Fx V2
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Sony SDMU27M90 (DP HDR), Acer KA272, ASUS VG328QA1A
    Screen Resolution
    3840x2160 HDR
    Hard Drives
    Samsung SSD 990 PRO 4TB, Samsung SSD 860 EVO 1TB, Seagate ST8000DM004-2CX88 8TB
    Case
    Fractal Meshify 2
    Cooling
    Arctic Freezer III 360mm
That does not explain the different behavior with File explorer flashing a white empty window.
Perhaps it is a timing issue with the duration of the initial empty file explorer window that makes it unnoticeable. 😎🤷‍♂️
I think you're right about it's being a timing issue. OLED pixels switch almost instantly, reducing ghosting in fast motion (gaming, video editing). IPS has slower liquid crystal transitions.
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 16 DA16260
    CPU
    Intel Series 3 Core Ultra X9 388H
    Memory
    64GB LPDDR5x 9600 MT/s
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Arc graphics B390 Panther Lake
    Monitor(s) Displays
    16" 3.2K Tandem OLED Infinity Edge
    Screen Resolution
    3200 x 2000 16:10 236 PPI
    Hard Drives
    1 Terabyte M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    NPU delivering 67 TOPS
    Microsoft 365 subscription
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Microsoft Sysinternals Suite
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot
    Dell Support Assist
    Dell Command | Update
    Macrium Reflect X subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Microsoft Surface Laptop 7
    CPU
    Snapdragon® X Elite (12 Core) with Hexagon NPU delivering 45 TOPS
    Memory
    32GB LPDDR5x 8448 MT/s
    Graphics card(s)
    Integrated Adreno GPU
    Sound Card
    Omnisonic speakers with Dolby Atmos spatial sound
    Monitor(s) Displays
    13.8″ PixelSense Flow touchscreen 120 Hz 600 NIT
    Screen Resolution
    2304 × 1536 (201 PPI), 3:2 aspect ratio
    Hard Drives
    1 TB PCIe NVMe Gen 4 SSD
    Case
    Black Anodized Aluminum
    Cooling
    Vapor Chamber Cooling
    Mouse
    None
    Internet Speed
    942 Mbps Netgear Mesh + 2 Satellites
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
    Antivirus
    Windows Security (Defender)
    Other Info
    Microsoft 365 subscription (Office)
    Microsoft OneDrive 1TB Cloud
    Microsoft Visual Studio 2026
    Microsoft Visual Studio Code
    Interactive Brokers Trader Workstation
    Lightroom/Photoshop subscription
    1Password Password Manager
    Microsoft Sysinternals
    Amazon Kindle for PC
    Microsoft BitLocker
    Microsoft Copilot

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Win 11 Pro 25H2 26200.8524
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Self Built
    CPU
    Intel® Core™ i7-14700K
    Motherboard
    ASUS TUF Z690-PLUS WIFI BIOS 4505 11/29/25
    Memory
    G.SKILL Ripjaws S5 Series 64GB (2 x 32GB) DDR5
    Graphics Card(s)
    ASUS GeForce RTX 4070 Super 12GB
    Sound Card
    Sound Blaster AE-5 Plus
    Monitor(s) Displays
    ASUS TUF Gaming 27" 2K HDR Gaming
    Screen Resolution
    2560 x 1440
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 990 Pro 1TB NVMe (Win 11 25H2)
    SK hynix P41 500GB NVMe 25H2 DEV/Games
    SK hynix P41 2TB NVMe (x3)
    Crucial P3 Plus 4TB
    PSU
    Corsair RM850x Shift
    Case
    Antec Dark Phantom DP502 FLUX
    Cooling
    Corsair Nautilus 360 RS AIO
    Keyboard
    Logitech MK 320
    Mouse
    Razer Basilisk V3
    Internet Speed
    350Mbs
    Browser
    Firefox
    Antivirus
    Winows Security
    Other Info
    MR 8.1 Home

    System 3 Specs
    Win 11 Pro 25H2 26200.8524
    ASUS PRIME Z370-P II BIOS 3004 7/12/21
    Intel Core i7-8700 CPU @ 3.20GHz
    32GB DDR4 RAM (4x8)
    iGPU Intel UHD Graphics 630
  • Operating System
    Win 11 Pro 25H2 26200.8524
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Self Built
    CPU
    Intel Core i7-11700F
    Motherboard
    Asus TUF Gaming Z590 Plus WiFi (BIOS 2803)
    Memory
    64 GB DDR4
    Graphics card(s)
    MSI GeForce RTX 3060 Ventus 2X 12GB
    Sound Card
    SoundBlaster Audigy Fx V2
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Samsung F27T350
    Screen Resolution
    1920x1080
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 980 Pro 1TB
    Samsung 970 EVO Plus 2TB
    Samsung 870 EVO 500GB SSD
    PSU
    Corsair HX750
    Case
    Cougar MX330-G Window
    Cooling
    Thermalright Frozen Edge 240 Black AIO
    Internet Speed
    350Mbps
    Browser
    Firefox
    Antivirus
    Windows Security
Install it. It'll update your Secure Boot DB with the new certificates.
Weird,
I wonder why I have not seen that update on any of my machines.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell XPS 8930
    CPU
    Intel I9-9900K
    Memory
    64GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA RTX 2060
    Sound Card
    NVIDIA High Definition Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    4k Samsung
    Screen Resolution
    3840 x 2160
    Hard Drives
    512GB NVMe, ADATA SU 800, 2TB HDD

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