Microsoft Confirms Windows 11 KB5124010 Breaks AC-3 Games and Apps
Microsoft says the September preview update KB5124010 can cause apps that decode AC-3 audio to close unexpectedly, with a fix planned for a future release.
Microsoft has acknowledged that the Windows 11 September optional preview update KB5124010 can cause applications that decode AC-3 (Dolby Digital) audio to close unexpectedly, according to techradar.com. The issue affects Windows 11 versions 26H2, 25H2 and 24H2.
The bug hits games, media players and productivity apps that rely on AC-3 decoding. Users have reported crashes in Fallout: New Vegas, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion and Wardogs after installing the September preview patch.
Beyond the app crashes, some users reported boot failures, slow booting or shutting down, and desktop sluggishness after installing the update.
Microsoft said it is working on a resolution and plans to deliver it in a future Windows update. Until then, uninstalling the patch is reported as the only cure, with no workaround available.
Background
The September preview update KB5124010 was released almost two weeks before this report and is set to become the full October update for Windows 11 a week after. In September 2025, the non-preview Windows 11 update broke a backup feature, and KB5124010 includes a fix for that bug.
Quick answers
Which Windows 11 versions are affected by the KB5124010 AC-3 bug?
Windows 11 versions 26H2, 25H2 and 24H2 are affected.
How do I fix the KB5124010 crashes?
Uninstalling the patch is reported as the only cure, as no workaround is available. Microsoft says a resolution is coming in a future update.
Which games are crashing after KB5124010?
Users reported crashes in Fallout: New Vegas, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion and Wardogs.