Windows 11 update sends some desktops into an unwanted goth phase

Microsoft's August update preview has painted some Windows 11 desktops black - and affected users can't simply restore their preferred backgrounds. Microsoft has confirmed reports that the update can prevent personalization settings from loading on Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. In an unfortunate Rolling Stones tribute, the operating system consequently falls back to its default black background, regardless of the values users enter. In its entry on the Windows release health dashboard, Microsoft added: "It is possible other desktop settings may be affected, such as slideshow settings or contrast themes. "On affected devices, attempting to manually restore customized settings does not work. This is because the issue prevents the correct loading of settings, regardless of their value. In this case, a default black background is used instead." In other words, affected users cannot restore their preferred settings and may be stuck with the black background until Microsoft supplies a fix. The Rolling Stones' Paint It Black turned 60 this year and concerns grief and loss - emotions familiar to anyone who has optimistically installed a Windows update only to be greeted by unfortunate results. As for that fix, Microsoft wrote: "We are working on releasing a resolution for this issue in a future Windows update." For some Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 users, the operating system has entered its goth period. Customers have complained about dark mode support for years, but turning the entire desktop black probably isn't the resolution they had in mind. An update that doesn't arrive loaded with issues would be a start. (R)