Cumulative updates disrupt audio output

As Microsoft has confirmed, patchday May cumulative updates may interfere with audio output for 5.1 systems under Windows 10. Updates KB5003173, KB5001391, KB5001330, and KB5000842 are affected, and their installation may result in noise and high-frequency emissions.

Users reported audio problems

Additionally, after installing cumulative updates, playback volume can be reduced dramatically in both the web browser and the games, such as the website The latest Windows You mentioned that first.

Microsoft itself has already taken a corresponding note in the release notes for the updates.

After installing this update, Dolby Digital 5.1 high-pitched audio may play or beep in some applications using certain audio devices and Windows settings.

Microsoft

According to Microsoft, only systems that produce over 5.1 and Dolby Digital are affected. to me The latest Windows Users reported random issues with games and Microsoft Edge.

On Reddit The issue was confirmed by several users who previously installed KB5003173 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version 2009 (“20H2”) and version 2004.

Problems with Group Policy

This issue affects Windows 10 20H2 and 2004, as well as KB5000842 cumulative updates released in March, KB5001330 and KB5001391 were released in April, and KB5003173 released in May.

After installing the said updates, there may also be individual group policy issues under Windows 10.

Users affected by audio output issues can manually uninstall the cumulative update or deactivate the ambient sound for the linked output.

The problem can also be solved by turning the sound effects on and off.

Microsoft expects to resolve the issue with the following cumulative updates on the next patch day on June 8th.