Overview

• Testers in both Beta and Dev channels spotted on June 13 that preview build 26200.5651 swapped in Vista’s four-note startup chime by replacing the .WAV file in imageres.dll.
• Brandon LeBlanc initially joked on X that he’d “had some fun with the sound files” before confirming the change was unintentional.
• Microsoft’s release notes label the glitch a “delightful blast from the past” reflecting the accidental return of Vista’s signature startup tune.
• Microsoft says the correct boot sound will be restored in an upcoming Windows 11 preview update.
• Observers have noted the bug’s curious timing following Microsoft’s recent poke at Apple’s Liquid Glass interface for echoing Vista’s Aero Glass design.