Microsoft Fixes Windows 10 Start Menu Bug Caused by Unwanted Account Feature

Microsoft has resolved a frustrating bug in Windows 10 that disrupted Start menu functionality — and the root cause may irritate users even more than the issue itself.

The glitch, which broke jump lists (the right-click menus on Start menu icons offering shortcuts to recent files or app-specific actions), first emerged with the April 2025 update. However, Microsoft has now confirmed that the bug had been lingering as far back as the February preview update.

According to a recent update on Microsoft’s release health dashboard, the issue was triggered by the company’s attempt to backport a Microsoft account-related feature from Windows 11 into Windows 10. Specifically, it involved a new “control experience” panel integrated into the Start menu — a change many users neither asked for nor welcomed.

The problematic rollout began in March and was paused on April 25 after user complaints mounted. Microsoft has since implemented a fix via a server-side update, meaning no manual patch is required — affected devices just need to be connected to the internet to receive the automatic resolution.

Microsoft stated:

“This issue was resolved by a service change that was rolled out on April 25, 2025. If you are still facing this issue, please ensure that your device is connected to the internet to receive the automatic resolution. After the next reboot, this issue should be resolved.”

Tech site Windows Latest, which experienced the bug firsthand, has confirmed that the fix has restored jump list functionality on affected systems.

While the broken feature might seem minor to some, many users rely on jump lists for quicker access to frequently used files or app functions. Disruption to this feature significantly impacted workflow and sparked backlash online.

The underlying cause — backporting features from Windows 11 — raises questions about Microsoft’s continued development for Windows 10, particularly as the OS nears its October 2025 end-of-support deadline. It appears Microsoft is still intent on promoting visibility for Microsoft accounts, even in a version of Windows soon to be retired.