Black Screen Issues in Windows 11 24H2 When Using Alt + Tab
The Alt-Tab keyboard shortcut in Windows allows users to quickly switch between different open application windows. Unfortunately, the recent Windows 11 24H2 update has introduced a significant glitch, causing a black screen to appear when using these key combinations. Observations from Windows Latest indicate this issue affects all systems operating on version 24H2.
Although the Alt + Tab functionality remains technically operational, users experience an annoying black screen that lingers for approximately ten seconds—a particularly frustrating delay when trying to transition between apps swiftly.
Beyond our internal assessments, a simple online search reveals numerous community discussions and Reddit threads focused on this black screen problem. Typically, users have reported this issue emerging post-upgrade to Windows 11 24H2. While rolling back the update could be a solution, it requires prompt action, as this option becomes unavailable after a ten-day period.
In response to the black screen dilemma, Microsoft implemented a fix in the optional October 2024 update for 24H2 systems. However, since optional updates do not install automatically, this can make addressing the issue more challenging. The remedy is part of a phased rollout; hence, even with manual installation of the October 2024 optional update, users may not receive the fix immediately.
To put it simply, numerous users are still grappling with the Alt-Tab issue in the Windows 11 2024 Update, but there is a silver lining. Microsoft has informed us that the Alt-Tab black screen bug will be resolved for all Windows 11 24H2 users by December.
Steps to resolve the Alt + Tab black screen issue in 24H2
In our investigations, we’ve pinpointed the Game Mode functionality as a key factor leading to this problem. Disabling Game Mode has shown to alleviate the black screen effect to a degree.
While this workaround isn’t foolproof, it does reduce the duration of the black screen. Additionally, disabling Hardware Acceleration has proven effective in rectifying issues in web browsers and applications like Discord. However, do note that not all applications experiencing the black screen will have an accessible Hardware Acceleration option.
You may also consider turning off the Optimizations for windowed games feature, designed to minimize latency when switching applications. This can be done by navigating to System > Display > Graphics > Optimizations for windowed games and disabling the respective toggle.
It’s worth noting that the upcoming Patch Tuesday Update for Windows 11 24H2, expected in November 2024, will include a fix for the Alt + Tab black screen dilemma. In the meantime, it’s advisable to exercise patience as the installation of this update and its subsequent rollout may take several weeks.
In addition to the Alt-Tab black screen issue, the Windows 11 24H2 update has been associated with other bugs, such as a problem where the File Explorer menu extends beyond the visible screen and another that disrupts Wi-Fi connectivity and network sharing capabilities.
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