Microsoft Replaces Windows 11 Startup Sound with Vista Audio

Exciting Updates in Windows 11 Dev and Beta Builds

The latest Windows 11 Dev and Beta builds have rolled out a variety of enhancements that many users are eager to explore. However, these preview versions are not without their quirks. One notable and somewhat amusing issue has emerged: the default startup sound for Windows 11 has been inadvertently swapped with a nostalgic track from 2006.

A Surprise Nostalgia: Windows Vista’s Startup Sound

Windows Insiders reported that the new builds feature the classic Windows Vista startup jingle instead of the contemporary Windows 11 sound. Acknowledging this development, Microsoft included it in their list of recognized bugs for the preview versions:

This week’s flight brings a charming throwback, now playing the Windows Vista boot sound instead of the Windows 11 boot sound. We are working diligently to resolve this issue.

Context and Coincidence

Interestingly, while Windows Vista is approaching its 20th anniversary, its sound unexpectedly gained fresh attention following Apple’s announcement of macOS 26 Tahoe. The latest macOS features a design termed “Liquid Glass, ”which many have criticized as a lackluster homage to Windows Aero from Vista and Windows 7.

Unintentional Throwback and Community Response

The unplanned introduction of the Vista startup sound was confirmed by Brandon LeBlanc of the Windows Insider team, who humorously reacted to the growing buzz around Windows Vista amid Apple’s recent updates:

I went in and had some fun with the sound files in Windows and thought folks needed a blast from the past 😉 You did say how much you loved Vista.

— Brandon LeBlanc (@brandonleblanc) June 13, 2025

Revisiting Windows Vista

For those nostalgic for the old Windows Vista startup sound, there’s good news: it remains accessible in today’s Windows versions. With the original WAV file and a few adjustments in the Windows Registry and Sound settings, you can easily bring back that vintage tone. If you’re interested in revisiting the sound, here it is for your listening pleasure:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnuTAa8LQiA

Microsoft Windows Vista Startup Sound (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnuTAa8LQiA)