[28xxx.2298+ x64 only] ep_taskbar crashloops explorer.exe

Before reporting your issue

• I have confirmed that this issue does not happen when ExplorerPatcher is not installed
• I do not have "register as shell extension" enabled
• I have tried my best to check existing issues

Repro ExplorerPatcher versions

Just an early warning. Latest EP crashes on Windows 11 Insider Beta (26H1) Preview Build 28020.2298. This is similar to previous releases. I don't expect an emergency response. Yet, I love EP, especially the vertical taskbar. Thank you!

Repro Windows Versions

Auto-install of Windows 11 Insider Beta (26H1) Preview Build 28020.2298. EP crashes until I select Windows 11 taskbar.

Third-party tweak software installed

No other tweak software installed.

Describe the bug

Auto-install of Windows 11 Insider Beta (26H1) Preview Build 28020.2298. EP crashes until I select Windows 11 taskbar.

Expected outcome

I hope for normal function.

Actual outcome

None.

Additional info

No response

Crash Dumps

No response

Media

No response

Start by reproducing the ep_taskbar crash on Windows 11 Insider Beta build 28020.2298 and collect the missing crash dump. Then inspect the taskbar crash path and compare behavior with the Windows 11 taskbar selected. Done means Explorer no longer crashloops and the preferred taskbar functions normally on that build.