Windows 11 flashbangs users with File Explorer Dark mode bug
Windows 11 update turns Explorer’s Dark Mode into an annoying mess
With Windows 11’s new KB5070311 update, a new bug has been introduced that literally flashbangs users of the OS’ file explorer in dark mode. The window may “flash white” before loading files and folders, and during other circumstances. Not ideal when you want your screen to be dark.
Thanks to this bug, Windows 11’s Dark Mode is now unusable with File Explorer. For now, there are no workarounds for this bug, though Microsoft claims to be working on a fix. Sadly, this bug has not stopped the rollout of KB5070311, so users of Windows 11’s Dark mode will need to be careful.
For now, users of this update should disable dark mode. As it stands, Dark Mode doesn’t work. Using Windows 11’s standard “Light Mode” is better than having a Dark mode that periodically flashes all white. Dark Mode shouldn’t have periodic flashbangs, but it does with Windows 11…
Known issues in this update
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
Microsoft is working to resolve this issue and will provide more information when it is available.
Windows 11 is a mess, and Microsoft needs to fix it
Honestly, the fact that this bug is still being rolled out through Windows updates shows how far Windows has fallen. This is a bug that directly impacts the user experience. Furthermore, it is a bug that disproportionately impacts heavy users. The fact that the rollout of KB5070311 hasn’t been stalled is a massive sign of disrespect, and many Windows users are getting sick of it. There’s a reason why Linux adoption is growing. If Microsoft wants to maintain its position, it needs to fix Windows and the processes that lead to these issues.
You can join the discussion on Windows 11’s file explorer flashbang bug on the OC3D Forums.
