Optional Windows 11 update causes glitchy File Explorer in dark mode
Earlier this week, Microsoft released Windows 11 optional update KB5070311, which brings several new features and improvements to the operating system, including changes to File Explorer such as “a more consistent dark mode experience.”
Unfortunately, the update is not done without problems. File Explorer’s new dark mode, for example, has a bug that can cause headaches.
Microsoft confirms the bug in the “Known issues in this update” section of the update’s support page:
After installing KB5070311, you might encounter issues opening File Explorer in dark mode. The window may briefly display a blank white screen before loading files and folders. This can also happen when you:
- Navigate to or from Home Or Gallery
- Create a new tab
- Turn it Details pane on or off
- Select More details when copying files
In other words, after installing update KB5070311, you may experience brief white flashes in File Explorer when, for example, you switch between folders or activate the Details pane.
The issue applies to Windows 11 25H2 (Build 26200.7309) and Windows 11 24H2 (Build 26100.7309) versions, and File Explorer is only displayed when Dark Mode is enabled. Microsoft says it is aware of the problem and is working on a fix. There is no workaround at this time.
