Microsoft Accidentally Replaces Windows 11 Startup Sound with Vista Chime

Microsoft briefly transported users back to 2007 this week when the company mistakenly swapped Windows 11’s familiar startup chime with the iconic Windows Vista boot sound.

The mix-up appeared in a recent Windows 11 Insider Preview build in the Dev Channel. Users who rebooted their systems noticed that instead of the modern Windows 11 tone, they were greeted by Vista’s distinct (and now nostalgic) startup sound.

Microsoft has since acknowledged the issue, calling it an unintentional change and confirming it will be fixed in an upcoming update.

“This week’s flight comes with a delightful blast from the past and will play the Windows Vista boot sound instead of the Windows 11 boot sound,” the Windows Insider team wrote in its release notes for the latest Dev Channel build.

Though the switch was accidental, the brief return of Vista’s audio cue sparked curiosity and nostalgia online, with some users even preferring the retro flair. But for now, it looks like Vista’s comeback is limited to this brief cameo, as Windows 11’s usual startup sound will return shortly.