Microsoft fixes problem preventing built-in apps from opening on Windows 11

Windows 11 Update Checkforupdate Dark
Windows 11 Update Checkforupdate Dark (Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft fixed an issue that prevented some built-in apps on Windows 11 from opening.
  • The fix is available for Windows Insiders in the Beta and Release Preview Channels.
  • The problem is caused by a digital certificate that expired on October 31, 2021.

Microsoft recently released Windows 11 KB5008295 to Windows Insiders in the Release Preview and Beta Channels. The update fixes an issue that prevents some built-in apps from opening on Windows 11. The Snipping Tool, Touch Keyboard, Emoji Panel, and several other built-in apps are affected. The update also addresses an issue that prevents the Start menu and Settings app from opening on PCs in S-mode.

The apps won't open because of a digital certificate that expired on October 31, 2021. Microsoft partially mitigated the issue with the KB5006746 update, but the KB5008295 update appears to be a complete fix.

Microsoft shared a blog post detailing the update:

  • We fixed a known issue that might prevent some users from opening or using certain built-in Windows apps or parts of some built-in apps. This issue occurs because of a Microsoft digital certificate that expired October 31, 2021. This issue might affect the following applications:
  • Snipping Tool
  • Touch Keyboard, Voice Typing, and Emoji Panel
  • Input Method Editor user interface (IME UI)
  • Getting started and Tips
  • We fixed a known issue that prevents the Start menu and Settings app from opening as expected (S-mode only).

The blog post notes that PCs won't show a revised build number or appear as an update in "winver." To make sure that the update has been installed, Insiders can check Settings > Windows Update > Update history.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.