With each new Windows 11 update, users increasingly feel like they’re playing the lottery: will they be lucky enough to avoid bugs this time? The latest patch, KB5071142, released by Microsoft in December, has once again sparked discussionβnot because of long-awaited improvements, but for another reason. Instead of promised upgrades, many users encountered unexpected visual glitches that interfere with everyday use and test the patience of even the most tolerant.
The update, initially presented as minor and unrelated to security, was supposed to make the interface more stable, especially in dark mode. However, the reality turned out differently: users noticed two distinct issues, both affecting key system components. These bugs not only ruin the appearance but also directly impact usability.
Visual glitches
The first bug reveals itself as a harsh white flash every time File Explorer is opened in dark mode. This effect occurs not only when launching the window but also when switching between tabs, using the sidebar, or copying files. The flicker lasts just a fraction of a second, but due to its frequency, it becomes intrusive and quickly exhaustingβespecially for users who work with files often.
The second bug is less noticeable but just as significant: when multiple sign-in methods are set up, the button for manually entering a password disappears from the lock screen. The button is physically still there, just invisibleβyou have to blindly click in the right spot to use it. For many users, this turns into a sort of quest, especially if theyβre unaware the hidden button exists.
User response
Both issues sparked a strong reaction in online communities and forums. Users point out that these types of errors have become increasingly common, and trust in Windows 11βs stability continues to decline. Many recall a time when bugs were rare, but now every update is met with caution. Visual glitches, animation freezes, and disappearing interface elements have become routine for owners of modern PCs.
Whatβs especially frustrating is that these failures affect the systemβs core functions. In the past, problems occurred with experimental or little-used features, but now they impact essential tools. This raises questions about the quality of testing and the developersβ priorities.
Expert opinion
Experts are increasingly calling for a reevaluation of the update approach. Dave Plummer, one of the creators of Windows Task Manager, compared the current state of the system to the period before Service Pack 2 for Windows XPβan era when stability was at risk. In his view, Microsoft should temporarily halt the introduction of new features and focus on fixing the accumulated bugs.
Analysts note that the ongoing race for innovation, including the integration of artificial intelligence and new services, distracts from the core goalβreliability and predictable performance. While the company bets on flashy new features, users are forced to deal with frequent crashes and instability.
Loss of trust
With each new bug, dissatisfaction grows among Windows 11 users. Many are already considering reverting to previous versions or switching to alternative operating systems. Social networks and blogs are filled with jokes that no update arrives without surprisesβbut the irony is now increasingly giving way to disappointment.
Interface problems, disappearing buttons, and menu malfunctions all contribute to the sense that stability is no longer a priority for developers. Users expect not only new features from Microsoft, but also the assurance that their devices will work reliably after every update.
The future of updates
It is still unclear how quickly Microsoft will be able to fix the identified bugs. The company has already acknowledged the issues and promised to release patches in upcoming updates. However, many fear that new updates will bring another round of bugs, and the situation may repeat itself.
The question of finding a balance between innovation and stability remains unresolved. Users hope that in the future the company will reconsider its priorities and restore trust in the system by making reliability the main criterion when releasing new versions.
In case you didn’t know, Microsoft is one of the world’s largest technology companies, founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. The corporation develops Windows operating systems, office applications, and cloud services, and is also actively incorporating artificial intelligence into its products. Windows 11 is the latest version of the OS, released in 2021, which regularly receives updates and new features.
