Top 15 Ways to Fix Windows Photos App Not Working 2023

Most Common Issues With the Windows Photos App.

Introduction:

The Windows Photos app is a popular tool for managing and viewing images on Windows 11. However, like any software, it can encounter issues that prevent it from functioning properly. If you're experiencing problems with the Windows Photos app, don't worry! In this guide, we'll explore 15 effective ways to troubleshoot and fix common issues with the Windows Photos app on Windows 11.

  Let's get started!

1. Update Windows 11:

Ensure that your operating system is up to date by installing the latest Windows updates. Microsoft regularly releases updates that include bug fixes and improvements for the Photos app.

2. Check for Photos App Updates:

Open the Microsoft Store and search for "Photos." If an update is available, click on the "Update" button to install the latest version of the app.

3. Restart the Photos App:

Sometimes, the app may not function properly due to temporary glitches. Close the Photos app, wait for a few seconds, and then relaunch it.

4. Reset the Photos App:

If the app continues to misbehave, you can try resetting it. Right-click on the Photos app icon, select "App settings," scroll down, and click on the "Reset" button. This will return the app's settings to their default state. 

5. Clear App Cache:

Clearing the app cache can resolve issues caused by corrupted temporary files. Open the Settings app, navigate to Apps > Apps & features, search for "Photos," select it, and click on the "Advanced options" link. Under the "Storage usage" section, click on the "Clear" button.

6. Reinstall the Photos App:

If none of the above steps worked, you can uninstall and reinstall the Photos app. Open PowerShell as an administrator, type the command "Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.Windows.Photos* | Remove-AppxPackage," and press Enter. Then, open the Microsoft Store, search for "Photos," and click on the "Install" button.

7. Check File Associations:

Ensure that the Photos app is set as the default program for opening image files. Open Settings, go to Apps > Default apps, scroll down, and click on the "Choose default apps by file type" link. Look for file types such as .jpg, .png, or .jpeg, and set the Photos app as the default for those file types.

8. Adjust Privacy Settings:

Make sure the Photos app has the necessary permissions to access your photos. Open Settings, go to Privacy > Photos, and enable the toggle switch for "Allow apps to access your photos."

9. Disable Third-Party Antivirus:

Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus software you have installed, as it may interfere with the Photos app's functionality. Check if the app works properly after disabling the antivirus.

10. Check System Requirements:

Verify that your computer meets the system requirements for the Photos app. Insufficient hardware specifications can lead to performance issues. Visit the Microsoft website to ensure your system meets the minimum requirements.

11. Run Windows Troubleshooter:

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix issues with apps. Open Settings, go to System > Troubleshoot, select "Additional troubleshooters," and run the "Windows Store Apps" troubleshooter.

12. Check for Driver Updates:

Outdated or incompatible display drivers can cause problems with the Photos app. Visit your computer manufacturer's website or the manufacturer's website of your graphics card to download and install the latest drivers.

13. Scan for Malware:

Malware infections can affect the performance of various applications. Run a full system scan using a reliable antivirus program to check for any malware that may be interfering with the Photos app.

14. Create a New User Account:

Creating a new user account can help determine if the issue is specific to your user profile. Open Settings, go to Accounts > Family & other users, click on "Add account," and create a new local account. Log in with the new account and check if the Photos app works correctly.

15. Contact Microsoft Support:

If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for further assistance. They can provide personalized guidance and help troubleshoot any underlying problems with the Windows Photos app.

Conclusion:

The Windows Photos app is a versatile tool for managing and viewing images on Windows 11. By following these 15 troubleshooting steps, you can resolve common issues and ensure that the Photos app functions smoothly. Remember to keep your system updated, maintain a clean app cache, and check for driver updates regularly to prevent future issues. Enjoy a hassle-free experience with the Windows Photos app on Windows 11!