Optional Windows 11 update causes glitchy File Explorer in dark mode

Earlier this week, Microsoft released optional Windows 11 update KB5070311, which brings several new features and improvements to the operating system, including File Explorer changes like “a more consistent dark mode experience.”

Unfortunately, the update isn’t without issues. The new File Explorer dark mode, for example, has a bug that may cause headaches.

Microsoft confirms the bug in the “Known issues in this update” section of the update’s support page:

After installing KB5070311, you might experience issues when opening File Explorer in dark mode. The window might briefly display a blank white screen before loading files and folders. This can also occur when you:

Navigate to or from Home or Gallery

Create a new tab

Turn the Details pane on or off

Select More details while copying files

In other words, after installing update KB5070311, you may experience brief white flashes or blinks in File Explorer when, for example, switching between folders or activating the Details pane.

The problem applies to versions Windows 11 25H2 (Build 26200.7309) and Windows 11 24H2 (Build 26100.7309), and File Explorer only spazzes out while dark mode is activated. Microsoft says it’s aware of the issue and working on a fix. There’s no workaround at this time. Read More