Windows 11 KB5050094 has emerged as a noteworthy optional update, rolled out on January 28, aimed at addressing the DAC audio bug that had been a source of frustration for many users. This update allows users to once again utilize their audio hardware without resorting to alternative solutions recommended by Microsoft. However, it is not without its own set of challenges, including a peculiar cursor behavior that has left some users feeling perplexed.
While KB5050094 enhances the usability of Windows 11 24H2, it introduces a range of annoying bugs that have been reported by several users. According to feedback collected by Windows Latest, the update has triggered an issue where the cursor seems to be perpetually loading. In our own tests, we observed that the cursor’s spinning circle appears approximately every thirty seconds, creating an impression that Windows 11 is continuously trying to load something in the background.
Interestingly, this update was intended to resolve a previous bug where the cursor would vanish when editing text fields—a problem first highlighted by Windows Latest after the installation of Windows 11 24H2. Unfortunately, the cursor disappearance issue persists, and the update has seemingly exacerbated the problem, particularly for users operating in light mode.
Other problems in the January 2025 update
Beyond the cursor conundrum, Windows 11 KB5050094 has been associated with several additional issues. Users have reported that File Explorer may become unresponsive following the installation of the update. This appears to be a widespread concern, as multiple users have echoed similar experiences. One user shared their frustration on the Feedback Hub, stating, “I installed the latest Windows 11 Pro Update on 1-31-2025. When the system restarted, I could no longer use Windows Explorer. This is on both my desktop and laptop. I happen to have GoodSync Explorer on my system, and they work fine.”
Furthermore, users have noted that Save As, Open, and Browse dialogs fail to open, and performance issues, particularly during login, have been reported, with some users experiencing delays of several minutes before gaining access to their desktops. Other desktop applications have also been observed to become unresponsive for extended periods, only to regain functionality after a brief interval. One user recounted their experience, stating, “I had the same exact experience on two additional PCs with Windows 11 24H2 with this preview update installed. Uninstalling this update makes Windows behave normally again.”
Here is a summary of the issues flagged by users following the Windows 11 24H2 update:
- Numerous users (over ten in discussions) reported that the cursor displays a spinning icon every thirty seconds, even during idle periods.
- Several individuals noted that File Explorer ceases to function properly, resulting in broken folders.
- Some users experienced audio devices disappearing when using applications such as Kodi.
- There are reports of PCs entering a loop where Windows attempts to reinstall the same update repeatedly, with ARM users encountering error 0x80070302.
- Hyper-V functionality is disrupted during Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) sessions.
- Rare instances of increased idle RAM usage and elevated CPU/GPU temperatures have also been documented.
What to do?
Given that KB5050094 is an optional update, users have the option to bypass it and await the upcoming February 2025 Patch Tuesday update. This forthcoming patch is expected to include fixes for the DAC audio bug, making it a potentially more favorable choice for those seeking resolution for their audio-related issues. However, there is a lingering concern that the February 2025 Update may inherit similar bugs, as it builds upon the problematic foundation of Windows 11 KB5050094. Regardless, we will be closely monitoring the February 2025 Update, scheduled for release on February 11, and will provide a thorough analysis following its launch.
Windows Latest has also reached out to Microsoft to inform them of the issues arising from this patch, highlighting the need for prompt attention to these concerns.
