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Why does my File Explorer flash white in Dark Mode after the latest update?
Microsoft’s latest update has introduced a jarring visual glitch for Windows 11 users. The issue causes File Explorer to flash a bright white screen before loading dark mode content. This problem affects devices running Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. Microsoft confirmed the bug appeared after the release of the KB5070311 preview update on December 1, 2025. The company is working on a resolution.
The “Flashbang” Glitch Explained
This visual bug occurs because the system briefly renders the default white background before applying your dark theme preferences. Users have described the effect as a “flashbang,” similar to a stun grenade in video games, which can be painful in low-light environments. The irony is that this update was specifically designed to improve dark mode consistency by darkening legacy dialog boxes for copying and moving files. Instead of a seamless dark experience, the update interrupts your workflow with sudden bursts of white light.
Triggers and Affected Scenarios
You will likely encounter this white flash during routine file management tasks. Microsoft identifies several specific actions that trigger the glitch. The flash happens when you:
- Launch File Explorer to the Home or Gallery view.
- Open a new tab within an existing window.
- Toggle the Details pane on or off.
- Navigate between the Home and Gallery sections.
- Click “More details” in the file copy or move dialogs.
Most users experience this immediately upon opening File Explorer, as the Home view is the default startup location.
Temporary Workaround
Microsoft has not yet released a software patch to fix this behavior directly. The only official workaround currently available is to disable dark mode completely. Switching to light mode eliminates the contrast between the loading screen and the interface, effectively hiding the flash.
Steps to disable Dark Mode:
- Open the Start menu and select Settings.
- Navigate to Personalization > Colors.
- Click the menu next to “Choose your mode” and select Light.
This change will apply a light theme across your entire system. While this stops the flashing, it may not be ideal if you prefer darker interfaces for eye comfort.
Advisor Recommendation
You should decide whether to install the KB5070311 update based on your tolerance for this visual glitch. If you have not installed the update yet, I recommend waiting. Microsoft plans to release the cumulative update on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. This upcoming release will likely include a fix for the flashing issue along with the intended dark mode improvements.
For users already experiencing the bug, the best course of action is to temporarily switch to light mode or endure the flashes until the December 9 patch arrives. Windows 10 users appear unaffected at this time, as no preview update was released for that operating system.