Microsoft’s first major set of Windows updates for 2025 has caused significant issues, with audio, Bluetooth, webcams, and other features malfunctioning in various versions of the operating system. The troubles began on January 14 with multiple updates, including KB5050009 for Windows 11 24H2, KB5050021 for Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2, and KB5049981 for Windows 10.
Audio glitches are reported to affect all versions of Windows, including 24H2, which has been plagued by unique bugs. Users have experienced no audio playback on Bluetooth headphones even after attempting to unpair and re-pair them or resetting the Bluetooth settings.
Other issues include problems with built-in webcams, particularly Dell monitors with built-in cameras. Some users have also reported errors when trying to use USB digital-to-analog converters (DACs), which produce error messages like “Insufficient system resources exist to complete the API.”
Furthermore, pressing Alt+Tab can freeze and crash a PC while switching between certain games. Ctrl+Alt+Del and Task Manager may not work as expected, affecting popular games such as Fortnite and Assassin’s Creed.
Microsoft has confirmed several bugs introduced by the January updates, including issues with Citrix components, USB audio devices, and DACs. However, a patch for the latter issue was released on January 28.
For now, users are advised to uninstall the problematic update if they experience these issues. Uninstalling the update can be done through the Windows Update History section in Windows 11 or Windows Update & Security section in Windows 10.
With the ongoing problems and Microsoft’s push for people to upgrade to Windows 11, it is essential that users can rely on their operating system without significant disruptions.
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-january-updates-trigger-audio-glitches-bluetooth-bugs-and-more