Microsoft fixes high-pitched noise bug in Windows 10

Microsoft has fixed a known issue causing applications to play high-pitched or squeaking noises while using certain apps in Windows 10 2004, Windows 10 20H2, and Windows 10 21H1.

This issue was first introduced in the March 2021 KB5000842 preview cumulative update but continued through cumulative updates released afterward.

Microsoft states that the issue only affected some Windows 10 users using 5.1 and only affected certain apps.

“After installing KB5000842 or later updates, 5.1 Dolby Digital audio may play containing a high-pitched noise or squeak in certain apps when using certain audio devices and Windows settings,” explains Microsoft on their Windows 10 Known issues and notifications center.

For Windows 10 users with stereo audio configuration, the issue does not occur.

This week, Microsoft released the Windows 10 KB5003690 preview cumulative update, which now fixes this audio bug for affected users.

As the KB5003690 update is an optional update, Windows 10 users will only receive the fix if they manually perform a ‘Check for updates’ in Windows Update and install the update.

Those who do not wish to install the preview update can wait until the mandatory July 2021 Patch Tuesday updates to receive the fix.

Last month, Microsoft also removed the final compatibility holds preventing customers from upgrading to Windows 10 2004, 20H2, and 21H1. This hold was related to Conexant and Synaptics audio driver issues that caused issues installing Windows 10 updates.