Autumn s Big Windows Update is Apparently Causing Display Problems

The long-awaited Windows 11 update, which was expected to bring a host of new features and improvements, has instead introduced a series of display-related issues for users in its beta-testing phase. With the official release of this update looming, many are reporting problems that are affecting their overall experience, particularly those who rely heavily on their display settings for work, gaming, or entertainment.

This article will explore the specific display problems arising from this Windows 11 update and the possible fixes. We will also examine why reverting to a previous version might be your best option until Microsoft resolves these issues.

Common Display Issues with the Latest Windows 11 Update (24H2)

Windows 11 beta testers have been vocal on multiple platforms, including Microsoft’s support forums and Reddit, about the various problems that have surfaced following the update. These display issues seem to be affecting a wide range of users, from casual to professional, and the reported problems include:

1. Screen Settings Resetting After Restart

Several users have complained that every time they restart their computers, their screen settings — including resolution, refresh rate, and color calibration — are reset to default values. This issue can be particularly frustrating for users who need specific settings for their work, such as photographers, designers, and gamers.

2. Black Screens with Alt + Tab

A common issue that has been reported is the occurrence of black screens when using the Alt + Tab keyboard shortcut to switch between apps. This glitch disrupts workflow and makes multitasking, which is one of the core functionalities of the Windows 11 interface, a challenge.

3. Black Screens and Lag in Fullscreen Mode

For those who play games or use applications in fullscreen mode, black screens and input lag are becoming a frequent issue. This problem primarily affects high-performance displays and gaming setups, where a smooth, seamless display is crucial for the user experience.

4. Flickering Screens

Another complaint involves screen flickering, which often occurs after updating or while switching between applications. This is particularly disruptive for video editors or designers who need precise color representation and stability during their work.

5. External Monitor Detection Issues

Many users who rely on external monitors are finding that Windows 11 fails to detect their monitors after the update. Even when detected, some external monitors are experiencing resolution mismatches or blurry displays.

Possible Solutions to Windows 11 Display Problems

Microsoft has not yet released a definitive fix for these issues, but several solutions have been proposed by the community and tech experts. Below are some of the most recommended steps to troubleshoot these problems:

1. Update Display Drivers

The first step when encountering display issues is to ensure that your display drivers are up to date. This can be done by going to Device Manager, locating your display adapter, and updating the drivers from there. Manufacturers like NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel often release driver updates to ensure compatibility with new Windows versions.

2. Check Hardware Cables

Though it may seem obvious, checking the hardware cables connected to your monitor can sometimes resolve these issues. Loose or damaged cables may cause screen flickering, black screens, or detection problems. Make sure all cables are securely connected and, if possible, try using different cables to rule out hardware issues.

3. Revert to Previous Windows Version (23H2)

If the display issues persist and no solution seems to work, your best bet might be to revert back to the previous version of Windows 11 (23H2). While this might not be an ideal long-term solution, it will at least allow you to continue using your system without display interruptions until Microsoft addresses the problems in future updates.

To revert, navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, and from there, select the option to go back to a previous version of Windows. Keep in mind that this process may involve reinstalling the operating system, and you may need to back up your data beforehand.

4. Reinstall Windows 11

A more drastic but effective solution might be to reinstall Windows 11. While this can be time-consuming, a fresh installation can often resolve issues that arise from corrupted files or improper installations of updates.

5. Disable Hardware Acceleration

Another workaround that has been mentioned is disabling hardware acceleration in apps where black screens or lag are occurring. This option is typically found in the settings menu of various applications and browsers, and turning it off has resolved issues for some users.

Is Microsoft Aware of the Problem?

According to the complaints and discussions taking place on various forums, Microsoft is likely aware of the display issues being reported by users. However, there has not yet been an official acknowledgment or a timeline for when a fix might be implemented. Given the scale of the complaints, it’s possible that a patch addressing these issues could be included in a future update.

Should You Upgrade to Windows 11 (24H2)?

The decision to upgrade to the latest Windows 11 version can be difficult when faced with the potential for display problems. While some users may not experience any issues at all, for those who rely on stable display performance — such as gamers, content creators, and professionals — it may be worth waiting until these bugs are ironed out before upgrading.

Alternatively, if you have already upgraded and are encountering issues, you can explore the solutions mentioned above to mitigate the problems or consider reverting to an earlier version of the OS.

Conclusion

The Windows 11 Autumn update (24H2) was supposed to bring improvements, but it has instead introduced display problems that affect a range of users. From screen resets to black screens and flickering, these issues can seriously disrupt your workflow or gaming experience. While there are potential fixes, users who are unable to resolve the problems may need to revert to the previous version of Windows 11 (23H2) until Microsoft addresses these issues.

For those affected, staying informed on the latest Microsoft updates and patches will be crucial. Meanwhile, taking proactive steps like updating drivers or reinstalling the OS could alleviate some of the frustrations.

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