GoKawiilWindows KB5124010 update causes crashes in apps using AC-3 audio decoding
Microsoft confirmed that installing the optional September 2026 KB5124010 preview update for Windows 11 can crash games, media players and productivity apps that rely on built-in AC-3 (Dolby Digital) audio decoding. Affected apps may fail to launch, close unexpectedly, or work until audio features are triggered. Microsoft says the issue mainly hits legacy software and has not given a timeline for a fix.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Because the update auto-installs on Windows 11 24H2 devices with automatic updates enabled, users may be affected without actively choosing to install it, unlike typical optional updates. This adds to a string of recent Windows update problems, including USB audio, Remote Desktop and Hyper-V failures last month, which could raise concerns about Microsoft's update testing process.
- KB5124010 breaks AC-3 audio decoding used by some legacy games and apps.
- The update installs automatically on 24H2 devices with auto-update enabled.
- Microsoft has not provided a fix timeline, only an acknowledgment of the issue.
Source: bleepingcomputer.com, 2026-10-05
Published there as: “Microsoft: Windows KB5124010 update crashes some games and apps”
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