Windows 11 Users Report Blinding White Flashes in File Explorer – Dark Mode might potentially be the Culprit
December 3, 2025 – Microsoft has acknowledged a new issue affecting some Windows 11 users: a disruptive white screen flash within File Explorer when operating in dark mode. This comes just days after the company addressed reports of a missing password button on the sign-in screen.
The problem appears to be triggered by the recently released preview update, KB5070311, and impacts versions 24H2 and 25H2 of Windows 11. Users are reporting the flashes occur during common file Explorer actions,including:
* Creating new tabs
* Toggling the details pane on or off
* Selecting “More details” during copying
* navigating to or from Home or Gallery views
For many,the issue is immediately noticeable upon opening File Explorer,as the Home view is often the default.
Currently, the only workaround offered by Microsoft is to disable dark mode. Here’s how:
- Open the start menu.
- Select Settings (or type “Settings” and press Enter).
- Navigate to Personalization > Colors.
- Change “Choose your mode” to “Light.”
While effective, switching to a light theme is not ideal for users who prefer the aesthetic and potential eye strain benefits of dark mode.
Microsoft states it is working on a resolution and will update its support article accordingly. Users are advised to consider delaying installation of the full cumulative update scheduled for release on December 9, 2025, until the issue’s status is clarified. It remains unknown whether Windows 10 users will experience the same problem, as Microsoft did not release a preview update for the older operating system.
This latest glitch highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining stability across the Windows ecosystem, even with rigorous testing procedures.The December 9th update is slated to be the last major Windows 11 update of 2025, adding pressure on Microsoft to deliver a stable experience.
