A Microsoft update from December 5th is breaking dark mode in many apps. Users report dark mode won't turn on or keeps switching to light mode. The problem affects Windows apps, third-party software, and system themes.

Post Type: Workaround

Error Description: The latest Microsoft update breaks dark mode in various software. Apps may show light mode despite your settings, or dark/light mode toggles might stop working.

Why This Error Happens

The December 5th update changed how Windows handles themes. The update conflicts with the code that lets apps use system theme settings, making them default to light mode or act unpredictably. This happens at the system level, not in individual apps.

Temporary Workaround Steps

Here's how to refresh your system's theme components while we wait for Microsoft's fix:

  • Open Windows PowerShell as Administrator. Search for "PowerShell" in the Start menu, right-click "Windows PowerShell," and select "Run as administrator."
  • Stop and Restart the Windows Themes Service. Copy and paste these commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
Stop-Service -Name Themes -Force

  • Restart the Windows Explorer Shell. This applies the new theme settings. Paste:
Get-Process explorer | Stop-Process

Your taskbar and desktop will disappear briefly and reload. Open File Explorer windows will close.

  • Check Your Personalization Settings. Right-click your desktop, select "Personalize." Go to "Colors" and make sure "Choose your mode" says "Dark." Try turning it off and on again.

If an app still won't show dark mode, look for theme settings inside that app. They might have reset.

Need more Windows fixes? Check our guides for Windows fixes and PowerShell scripts.

What We're Doing & Next Steps

At RainCity Techworks, we support clients in Seattle and Tacoma. We've tested this fix with good results across many systems. We're watching Microsoft's updates and will revise this post when they release a permanent fix.

We'll update this post when Microsoft releases their solution. For now, the steps above work best to get dark mode running again.

Still Having Issues?

If your theme keeps acting up, you might have deeper system problems. When the workaround doesn't help or you notice other glitches, consider getting an expert look.

Our managed IT services watch for these problems and fix them fast. Need help now? Contact us.