Microsoft has lifted update restrictions for Windows 11 version 24H2: Many users can now make the long-awaited upgrade. Devices with Dirac audio issues were affected, but AutoHDR conflicts remain unresolved.
Upgrade block lifted after months
Microsoft implemented so-called "safety holds" to ensure a smooth user experience, but on the other hand, unresolved compatibility issues prevented many users from upgrading for months. That situation has now changed.
Safety hold removed
Microsoft lifted a major restriction on September 11th: The safety hold has been lifted, and eligible devices can now install Windows 11 version 24H2 through the regular Windows Update channel without any further restrictions. This change particularly affects users affected by issues with the Dirac audio technology. According to Microsoft, the issue has been resolved with a new security update.
Dirac audio issues finally resolved
Dirac audio technology, used for digital sound enhancement and spatial audio optimization, caused speakers, Bluetooth speakers, and Bluetooth headphones to stop working properly after the 24H2 upgrade. Affected users reported complete audio loss or severely distorted playback.
Therefore, Microsoft paused the update after the issue became public. Dirac technology is primarily used in high-end laptops and high-end audio systems, enhancing sound quality through digital signal processing. Gaming laptop manufacturers such as ASUS and MSI use this technology in their devices.
The issue stems from an incompatibility between the new Windows 11 24H2 architecture and the cridspapo.dll file responsible for Dirac audio processing. A new driver has now been provided via Windows Update to resolve the compatibility issue with the cridspapo.dll file. Users should download the KB5065431 update for Windows 11 23H2 to obtain a solution, and then switch to 24H2.
AutoHDR conflicts persist. While the Dirac audio issue has been resolved, other issues remain. Microsoft maintains a compatibility block for devices with Auto HDR enabled. When Auto HDR is enabled, game colors may display incorrectly or the game may become unresponsive on certain display configurations. Auto HDR is a feature that automatically adds HDR-like effects to older games that weren't originally designed for HDR. As a workaround, users can disable Auto-HDR under Settings > System > Display > Graphics. This can be configured for individual games in custom application settings. Users can also check if their system is affected by the block. The corresponding entry can be found in the Windows Registry:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\AppCompatFlags\CompatMarkers\GE24H2
If "GateBlockedId" is set to "None," there is no block.
