Windows 10 Bug Disrupts App Management: Key Insights & Fixes

Windows 10 strikes again, but this time it’s not about those dreaded full-screen notifications urging you to upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft has just confirmed a particularly annoying bug that could wreak havoc on how you manage your apps. If you’re struggling to update or uninstall programs, fret not—you’re not alone. Here's the lowdown on what’s happening, what it means for you, and how you might sidestep the chaos.

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The Culprit: Bug in WinAppSDK Packages​

Here’s the breaking news: Microsoft has traced the issue to the WinAppSDK v1.6.2 package, which dropped on November 12, 2024. Now, what does this mean in simple terms? This software development toolkit helps developers create modern apps compatible with Windows. Unfortunately, when you attempt to update certain applications using this package, the Microsoft Store stumbles, showing the ambiguous error: “Something happened on our end.”
For IT admins, it’s even worse. Running the PowerShell Get-AppxPackage command results in a frustrating cacophony of technical headaches, such as the following error:

 Deployment failed with HRESULT: 0x80073CFA—Please contact your software vendor. (Exception from HRESULT: 0x80073CFA)

Translation? Packaged apps (programs bundled for easier deployment/installations, such as Microsoft Teams and similar software) are basically stuck in software limbo. Updating or uninstalling these apps is almost mission impossible, at least until Microsoft rolls out a fix.

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Are ALL Apps Impacted?​

The good news is, this bug isn’t universal. Here’s who is safe and who’s not:

Affected​

• Apps relying on the WinAppSDK v1.6.2 to deploy their updates.
• Packaged Applications: These are typically installed via Microsoft Store or managed by IT teams via PowerShell.
• Exclusively hampers Windows 10 PCs running version 22H2.

Immune​

• Users of Windows 11—you lucky bunch can carry on as normal.
• Win32 Applications—commonly used legacy programs (think classic desktop .exe installers) dodged this bullet entirely.
• All systems running earlier or different iterations of the Windows App SDK.
• Devices on Windows 10 builds other than 22H2.

While the bug doesn’t discriminate between first-party and third-party applications, it’s been widely reported in corporate mainstays such as Microsoft Teams.

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Microsoft's Response & Timeline for a Fix​

Acknowledging the problem, Microsoft has assured its user base that a permanent solution is in the works. This could come in the form of:

1. A Windows Kernel Update: Updates delivered via Windows Update could include patches that revise the bug in WinAppSDK registries.
2. Developer Updates: While waiting for official fixes, admins are encouraged to consult resources on GitHub for stopgap solutions. Particularly, PowerShell scripts are rumored to be a reliable lifeline.

But let’s face it, nobody likes playing the waiting game, especially with software disruptions. Microsoft has promised a patch “in a few days,” but only time will tell if it lives up to expectations.

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Implications for IT Administrators​

For IT professionals managing corporate or academic setups with Windows 10 machines running packaged software, this bug is far from trivial. The inability to push updates or force-uninstall malfunctioning programs via management tools like PowerShell can disrupt workflows, patch management, and even compliance with cybersecurity norms. Systems left stuck on out-of-date versions are especially vulnerable to known exploits. After all, outdated apps are like unlocked doors for cyber bad guys.
For now, Microsoft’s GitHub repository and online forums hold quick fixes to ensure continuity.

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Refresher on Prior Windows 10 Problems​

This isn’t the first time Windows 10 users have run afoul of app-related issues. A few weeks ago, Microsoft disclosed that KB5043131, another critical update, resulted in certain applications outright refusing to launch. Thankfully, that issue was eventually squashed via KB5046613 released on—you guessed it—November 12, 2024, the same date associated with the current drama.
Coincidence? Maybe. But it’s difficult not to connect the dots. It's worth remembering that as Windows 10 trudges closer to its official End-of-Life in October 2025, bugs like these may become increasingly common.

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What You Can Do Right Now​

Until the official patch arrives, here are some proactive steps to alleviate the pain:

1. Delay Non-Essential Updates: If the apps run fine, don’t fix what isn’t broken! Wait until Microsoft announces a secure patch.
2. Check GitHub for Fix Scripts: Microsoft has shared workarounds—especially for PowerShell-dependent scenarios.
3. Switch to Alternatives: If a critical application remains nonfunctional, consider using a Win32 alternative temporarily.
4. Stay Updated: Bookmark the Windows Health Dashboard or follow Microsoft forums to stay informed about fixes.
5. Test on a Pilot System: Before rolling out any homemade fixes, test on a single device or sandbox environment to ensure wide compatibility.

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Looking Ahead: Is Migration to Windows 11 the Solution?​

Here’s a sobering reality: such incidents underline the fragility of software stuck in extended support mode. As Microsoft continues its aggressive push to drive users toward Windows 11 (ironically via full-screen ads), incidents like these may entice customers to make the transition intentionally or as part of an upgrade cycle.
While Windows 11 Version 24H2 (the newest build) appears to be immune to this specific bug, users should also weigh the pros and cons of transitioning. Yes, you get the shiny features, modern GUI, and stability improvements, but compatibility with older hardware or software remains a stumbling block for some businesses and individual users.

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The Bigger Picture​

Windows 10 users, especially those on version 22H2, are once again reminded of the bittersweet reality of aging software. As Microsoft increasingly focuses its efforts and innovation on Windows 11, bugs like these may become less of an exception and more of a norm. Whether you’re managing applications in bulk or simply looking to uninstall an unused program, keep tabs on the issue’s evolving status.
Stay tuned here on WindowsForum.com as we monitor Microsoft's updates and bring you step-by-step guidance when the fix inevitably lands!

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Source: Neowin Microsoft confirms problems with updating and uninstalling apps on Windows 10