Microsoft eliminates the lingering scent of Vista from Windows 11 Insider Preview version
Microsoft has addressed a peculiar issue that surfaced in June 2025, causing the Windows Vista startup chime to play instead of the usual Windows 11 sound for some Windows Insider users. The tech giant confirmed the fix in Windows 11 build 27913, which restores the intended Windows 11 startup sound and eliminates the unexpected Vista sound.
The bug, described by Microsoft as a "delightful blast from the past," was not an intentional Easter egg or a troll related to Apple's UI release that coincidentally happened around the same time. Early fixes attempted in other Insider channels failed to fully resolve the issue, with the Vista sound reappearing in some Canary Channel builds. Brandon LeBlanc, one of Microsoft's Windows Insider bosses, explained that this was due to the fixes not fully propagating through Insider branches yet.
Microsoft acknowledged the issue as a known bug and promised a fix. The final resolution came in build 27913, as confirmed in the official Windows 11 Insider release notes and by reporters: "Fixed an issue where the Windows Vista boot sound was unexpectedly being used instead of the Windows 11 boot sound."
Some users may find this bug reminiscent of the criticisms leveled against Windows Vista, which, like Windows 11, has been reviled by users, has hardware compatibility issues, and is festooned with unwanted gadgets and widgets. A reader from our website even commented that the bug is proof that Windows 11 is similar to Windows Vista in terms of user experience and issues.
Brandon LeBlanc, in a joking manner, hinted at the possibility of other features from the past being revived in Windows 11. He also confirmed that the bug was an actual issue and not a deliberate move. The Start Menu and Taskbar from Windows 10 could potentially be one of these features that might make a comeback in Windows 11.
With this fix, affected users can now enjoy the modern Windows 11 startup sound, free from the unexpected blast from the past. Microsoft continues to work on improving the user experience in Windows 11, addressing issues as they arise to provide a smoother and more enjoyable experience for its users.
- The bug, reminiscent of Windows Vista's past, was not intentionally inserted as an Easter egg or a troll, but it serves as a potential indicator for the revival of some old features from earlier versions of Windows, such as the Start Menu and Taskbar from Windows 10.
- In an effort to enhance the user experience, Microsoft has addressed a known bug that caused the Windows Vista boot sound to unexpectedly replace the Windows 11 boot sound, a problem that typically echoes criticisms levied against Windows Vista for its hardware compatibility issues and excessive gadgets and widgets.
