The first Windows update of 2025 immediately causes problems. Windows users are left with headphones or webcams that no longer work after installing the update.
Microsoft continues its tradition of destructive Windows updates in 2025. On Jan. 14, it rolled out the first monthly security update for Windows 11 and Windows 10, and reports of problems usually follow not much later. These span multiple update versions: KB5050009 (W11 24H2), KB5050021 (W11 23H2) and KB5049981 (W10).
Windows Latest lists some known problems. The update affects wireless headphones that connect with bluetooth. The connection is still established, but the headphones cannot play sound. Reconnecting the headphones or resetting bluetooth brings no relief.
Wired headphones do not fare much better. The same thing can occur with USB DAC headphones. This is an annoying problem if you want to use headphones.
No image without sound
The update problems are not limited to audio. You may find that in addition to not being able to hear anything, you cannot be seen during a video conference. Users get a notification that the built-in webcam in their PC cannot be found by Windows. Windows Latest reports that this also happens with webcams from an external monitor.
The only remedy for these problems is to uninstall the update again. The problems are being reported through Microsoft’s Feedback Hub so they will be on the radar soon. A patch may be available soon, but for now it seems wise not to install the latest Windows update for a while if you want to use your headphones or webcam.
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Windows update breaks headphones and webcams
From the Windows Update menu in the settings, you can check what version your device is running on and whether new updates are ready. Here you can set whether you want updates installed automatically as soon as they become available. This can be useful if you are forgetful, but given Windows’ recent update history, it is often better to wait a while and perform the update yourself as soon as the first major problems are eliminated.