Latest Windows 11 update kills streaming app performance

It seems like Windows users can’t catch a break when it comes to system updates these days. Just recently we’ve seen disappearing SSD issues and PC recovery problems. Now, the latest security update for Windows 11 is causing “severe stuttering, lag, and choppy audio/video” in streaming apps like OBS. That’s not according to users (though they’re saying it too), but rather a direct quote from Microsoft.

The company says so on the issue tracker for Windows updates, which is getting a lot of use as of late. To be clear, we’re talking about apps that record and stream the PC itself, like Open Broadcast Software and NDI Tools. As far as we, Microsoft, and BleepingComputer (who spotted the official statement) know, this issue won’t make your YouTube, Netflix, or Disney+ streams stutter. The affected Windows build is 26100.4946, after the KB5063878 update.

Microsoft also shares a tip for NDI Tools users recommended by the developer, but a more permanent solution might take a while. “We are investigating this issue,” says the post, “and will provide more information when it is available.” So if you see your favorite game streamer looking a little more haggard than usual this week, now you know why.