I have the same problem.
The uninstall / install process described above, when carried out with the latest version (V2), not only fails to resolve the problem, but brings along the added headache of not being able to register with a V1.X email / product key.
Unpinning and repining helps with some of the newly black background icons, but not with all.
Your help is sincerely appreciated.
Hello,
Sorry to hear you are having issues. First, do know that your Start11 v1 key will not work on Start11 v2.Start11 v2 is a paid upgrade, not an updates.
Second, black background icons, which applications you're referring that re-pinning not resolved your issue? Need more details, please.
Thanks
Basj,
Stardock Community Assistant.