Microsoft has acknowledged a significant issue affecting Windows 10 users since November 12, where some individuals have encountered difficulties in updating or uninstalling packaged applications, notably Microsoft Teams. This complication stems from the deployment of the WinAppSDK 1.6.2 package, which was automatically installed on users’ systems following the installation of an application developed using the Win App SDK.
For those utilizing Windows 10 22H2 devices, the experience has been marred by an error message stating, “Something happened on our end,” prominently displayed in the Microsoft Store’s ‘Downloads’ panel. IT administrators managing packaged apps via PowerShell may also find themselves facing the error message, ‘Deployment failed with HRESULT: 0x80073CFA’, accompanied by a prompt to contact their software vendor.
Microsoft clarified that this issue is not linked to any Windows security or preview monthly updates, indicating that uninstalling previously released Windows cumulative updates will not remedy the situation. The tech giant is actively working on a solution, which is expected to be rolled out through a Windows update in the coming days.
Microsoft pulls buggy WinAppSDK update
In response to the ongoing challenges, Microsoft has taken the precautionary step of retracting the WinAppSDK 1.6.2 package to safeguard additional Windows 10 users from similar complications. Mike Crider, a lead software engineer at Microsoft, confirmed that a WinAppSDK 1.6.3 update, containing the necessary fix, is also on the horizon.
For those affected by these app update and installation hurdles, Microsoft has provided a workaround. Users can execute specific commands in PowerShell or Command Prompt with administrator privileges to alleviate the issues plaguing their devices.
This recent development follows another incident earlier in the month, where Microsoft addressed a problem triggered by the September 2024 preview update (KB5043131). This particular issue hindered the functionality of applications such as Quick Assist, Microsoft Teams, and Windows Narrator for non-admin users.
Moreover, Microsoft has recently withdrawn the November Exchange security updates after receiving widespread feedback from administrators reporting disruptions in email flow on their servers. The company has also resolved various bugs that were causing blue screens and installation challenges on Windows Server 2025 systems.
On Wednesday, Microsoft further confirmed a new issue related to Windows 24H2, which has led to unexpected audio surges to full volume when utilizing USB DAC sound systems during gaming sessions.
