Microsoft confirms Windows 11 audio bug in update KB5124010

Microsoft has confirmed a technical issue in Windows 11 following the release of update KB5124010 (Build 26300.9550). The bug causes applications to crash unexpectedly when attempting to use the system’s integrated AC-3/Dolby Digital audio decoder.

The problem affects multiple versions of the operating system, including Windows 11 24H2, 25H2, and the newly released 26H2. Impacted software includes older games, media players, and certain productivity applications that rely on legacy Windows audio components rather than their own built-in decoders.

Symptoms vary: some programs fail to launch entirely, while others crash only when audio is played or volume settings are adjusted. Microsoft is currently working on a fix to be included in a future update, though no specific release date has been provided.

As a temporary workaround, Microsoft suggests that users can uninstall the KB5124010 update or pause automatic updates. For those using the 26H2 version, the update can also be applied via an enablement package or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant if it has not yet appeared through standard Windows Update channels.