After nearly two and a half years, Microsoft has removed an upgrade barrier that prevented certain Windows 10 PCs from transitioning to Windows 11 due to a driver conflict. The culprit was specific versions of Intel’s Smart Sound Technology drivers causing system crashes on the newer operating system.
The compatibility hold was implemented in November 2021 – a time when major tech milestones like Meta unveiling its metaverse vision, NASA’s asteroid redirection test, and OpenAI debuting its DALL-E image generator captured public attention. Behind the scenes, Microsoft discovered Intel audio drivers could derail Windows 11 upgrades.
Only systems running 11th Gen Intel Core chips with Smart Sound Technology driver versions 10.29.0.5152 or 10.30.0.5152 triggered the issue. To get around it, users simply need to update to version 10.30.00.5714 or later through Windows Update. Assuming no other compatibility hurdles, the Windows 11 upgrade path should open up within two days.
While the specific number of users still impacted is unknown, Microsoft confirms the “issue is resolved” by applying the updated Intel drivers. Removing this longstanding barrier may not radically accelerate Windows 11 adoption overnight, but it eliminates an annoying stumbling block.
As transformative technologies like the metaverse faded and AI surged over the past couple years, Microsoft can finally put this outdated Windows 11 upgrade impediment to rest as it continues the operating system’s rollout.
