A recent cumulative update for Windows 10 has introduced a bug that the emoji panel's search feature non-working. It was introduced in the release of update KB5062554 on July 8, 2025. This update addresses security flaws and system stability issues, but unexpectedly damaged the emoji search function.
Users report that while the emoji panel remains accessible via the Win + . shortcut and allows manual selection of emojis, the ability to search by keyword or name no longer works. Instead of returning results, the panel displays the message: "We couldn't find this character."
Independent testing confirms the functionality was operational before the update but stopped to work afterward.
Microsoft has not issued an official statement regarding the issue, and didn't confirm it officially yet. Meanwhile, the company continues to encourage Windows 10 users to transition to Windows 11, where it is focusing its development efforts. As you may already know, support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025.
In related news, Microsoft has started testing a dedicated emoji picker button on the taskbar in Windows 11. It offers quick access to emojis and GIFs, replicating the functionality of the Win + . keyboard command in a more user-friendly way. The button remains exclusive for Windows 11, without an official port for Windows 10. However, if you like the idea, you can download a standalone Emoji button app for Windows 10, pin it to the taskbar, and enjoy the similar experience.
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