Fix built-in apps don’t work in Windows 11, including Snipping Tool

On October 21, 2021, Microsoft released the first optional update for Windows 11, providing users with a host of much-needed fixes and improvements. Like every other preview update, Windows 11 does not download and install KB5006746 automatically. Instead, users need to open Windows Update and download the update manually. Those who reasonably decided to stay away from preview updates for Windows 11 suddenly found themselves with several broken built-in apps.

Microsoft published an update on the official Windows 11 Health Dashboard page, notifying users about potential problems launching stock apps, such as Snipping Tool, touch keyboard, emoji panel, Getting Started, Tips, etc. The company says the issue happened due to one of the digital certificates, which expired on October 31, 2021.

"Starting on November 1, 2021, some users might be unable to open or use certain built-in Windows apps or parts of some built-in apps that have not installed KB5006746, released October 21, 2021. This is caused by an issue with a Microsoft digital certificate, which expired October 31, 2021. Devices running in S mode are more likely to be affected."

Some blogs offer users a somewhat questionable solution: roll back the date and time to October 31, 2021. In reality, the fix for the broken stock apps in Windows 11 is much more straightforward. All you need is to download KB5006746. Besides numerous patches and improvements, the update will refresh the expired certificate and restore the stock apps to their working state.

If you are not familiar with installing optional updates on a PC with Windows 11, here is a brief manual for you.

Fix Snipping Tool and other apps don't work in Windows 11

1. Press Win + I to open Windows Settings.
2. Go to the Windows Update section.
3. Click Advanced Options.
4. Find the Additional Options section and click the Optional Updates button.
5. Locate the KB5006746 item and click Download.
6. Restart your computer to apply updates.

Microsoft will include all bug fixes in the KB5006746 in the November 2021 cumulative updates on November 9, 2021.