Microsoft engineer reveals more details about Janet Jackson song that used to mysteriously crash Windows XP PCs

Windows has navigated a myriad of bugs throughout its extensive history, and even today, new issues occasionally emerge. This is not entirely unexpected, given that the operating system is a complex amalgamation of code, some of which is considered outdated by contemporary standards. While Microsoft continues to modernize various components of Windows, the aspiration for a completely “bug-free” environment remains elusive, reflecting the inherent challenges of software development.

Recently, a Microsoft engineer shed light on a particularly curious bug that affected Windows XP for a significant period. In 2022, Raymond Chen revealed that playing Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation on certain Windows XP systems could lead to unexpected crashes. The peculiarity of this issue extended beyond mere software; it was linked to hardware malfunctions, with PCs in proximity to the song also at risk of internal damage.

Windows PCs didn’t really like Janet Jackson

Initially, users were baffled by the sudden and frequent crashes of their computers, which seemed to occur without any apparent cause. After extensive investigation and experimentation, the collaborating OEM and Microsoft discovered that Rhythm Nation emitted a natural resonant frequency that interfered with the functionality of 5400rpm hard drives commonly used in affected PCs. To address this, a custom audio filter was developed to eliminate the problematic frequency during audio playback.

The story doesn’t end there

Chen’s recent blog post provided further insights into this amusing episode. The custom audio filter introduced in Windows XP remained in place until the launch of Windows 7, when Microsoft instituted new rules regarding Audio Processing Objects (APOs). These changes allowed users to disable all audio filters, inadvertently exposing those unaware of the Janet Jackson bug to potential hardware damage once more.

In response, the affected OEM sought an exemption from the new APO rule, which Microsoft granted. This ensured that users could not disable the audio filter associated with Rhythm Nation, safeguarding both the OEM’s reputation and Microsoft’s own. The rationale was clear: users experiencing mysterious crashes—sometimes occurring days after listening to the song—would likely place blame on both the OEM and Windows, tarnishing their images.

Yet, a lingering mystery remains. Chen has refrained from revealing the identity of the OEM involved, opting instead to refer to it as “Fabrikam,” a fictional entity frequently used in Microsoft’s documentation. While the exact company affected may remain unknown, the story serves as a fascinating reminder of the unexpected intersections between technology and pop culture.

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Microsoft engineer reveals more details about Janet Jackson song that used to mysteriously crash Windows XP PCs