Microsoft working on fix for April 2018 Update PCs freezing with Chrome and other apps

Shortly after Microsoft began rolling out the Windows 10 April 2018 Update to the public this week, a number of Reddit users reported issues with system freezes while using Google Chrome after installing the update. Now, Microsoft has responded, saying that it is aware of the issue and is working on a fix (via Neowin).

In particular, Microsoft says devices may "hang or freeze when using certain apps such as 'Hey Cortana' or Chrome." While there's no solution now, Microsoft does provide two possible workarounds with which some community members have reported success. Though it's worth noting, the workarounds don't seem to work for everyone. From Microsoft:

• Try a Windows key sequence to wake the screen. If you have a keyboard connected, simultaneously press the Windows logo key + Ctrl + Shift + B. If you're on a tablet, simultaneously press both the volume-up and volume-down buttons, three times within 2 seconds. If Windows is responsive, a short beep will sound and the screen will blink or dim while Windows attempts to refresh the screen.
• If you're using a laptop, close and open the laptop lid.

In the meantime, Microsoft says it is planning to ship a fix for the underlying issue with its next monthly update. Should things pan out, that means you'll see a fix land on May 8 when the Patch Tuesday updates for May arrive.

Windows 10 April 2018 Update common problems and fixes