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How to Fix Photos App Not Working on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

The Photos app on Windows 10 is a convenient tool for viewing and managing your pictures. However, sometimes it may stop working properly or fail to open. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on it for everyday photo viewing and editing.

Fortunately, there are several simple ways to fix common issues with the Photos app. Most solutions don’t require advanced technical knowledge and can be done quickly.

This guide will walk you through step-by-step troubleshooting methods to get your Photos app working again. Each step is explained in detail to help you understand what to do and why it matters.

By following these instructions, you can restore the app’s functionality and enjoy your photos without hassle.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before You Start

Before diving into fixes, please make sure of the following:

  • Windows Updates: Your system is up to date. Sometimes, bugs are fixed through regular Windows updates.
  • Restart Your PC: A simple restart can clear temporary glitches affecting the app.
  • Check Storage Space: Ensure your device has enough free space because low storage can cause app crashes.
  • Internet Connection: Some features of the Photos app may require internet access, so verify your connection.

Step 1: Reset the Photos App

Resetting the app clears its cache and data without affecting your photos. This often fixes corrupted settings or temporary bugs.

  1. Click on the Start button and open Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Apps and then Apps & Features.
  3. Scroll down to find Microsoft Photos and click on it.
  4. Select Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down and click the Reset button.
  6. A warning will appear; confirm by clicking Reset again.

After the reset, try opening the Photos app again. This step is important because it refreshes the app’s internal files and can resolve many issues without reinstalling.

Step 2: Check for Photos App Updates via Microsoft Store

Sometimes the app may not work properly because it is outdated. Updating ensures you have the latest bug fixes and features.

  1. Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
  2. Click on the three-dot menu (top-right corner) and select Downloads and updates.
  3. Click Get updates to check for any available updates for your installed apps.
  4. If an update for Microsoft Photos is available, it will begin downloading automatically.
  5. Once updated, restart the app and see if the problem is fixed.

Step 3: Reinstall the Photos App Using PowerShell

If resetting and updating don’t help, reinstalling the app can fix deeper problems. This method removes the current app and installs a fresh copy.

Important: This step requires running PowerShell with administrator rights.

  1. Right-click on the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. In the PowerShell window, type the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.Windows.Photos* | Remove-AppxPackage

This command uninstalls the Photos app.

  1. Next, reinstall the app by typing the following command and pressing Enter:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.Windows.Photos | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

Wait for the process to complete, then restart your computer. Open the Photos app to check if it works correctly.

Step 4: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to fix problems with apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store, including Photos.

  1. Open Settings and go to Update & Security.
  2. Select Troubleshoot from the left menu.
  3. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
  4. Find and select Windows Store Apps and click Run the troubleshooter.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will detect and fix issues automatically.

This tool is useful because it scans for common problems with apps and repairs them without requiring manual intervention.

Step 5: Check and Repair System Files

Corrupted system files can cause apps like Photos to malfunction. Running system scans can identify and fix these errors.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator. To do this, right-click the Start button and choose Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This command scans all protected system files and repairs corrupted ones.

  1. Wait for the process to finish. It may take several minutes.
  2. If issues are found and fixed, restart your computer and try the Photos app again.

Alternative Method: Use a Different Photo Viewer

If none of the above steps work or you need immediate access to your photos, consider using a different photo viewer. Windows 10 includes the classic Windows Photo Viewer, which can be enabled via registry edits, or you can use free third-party apps like IrfanView or FastStone Image Viewer.

This alternative is helpful while you troubleshoot the Photos app or as a permanent replacement if you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does my Photos app keep crashing?

Crashes often happen due to corrupted cache, outdated app versions, or system file errors. Resetting or reinstalling usually fixes this.

Will resetting the Photos app delete my pictures?

No. Resetting clears app settings and cache but does not delete your actual photo files stored on your device.

Can I reinstall the Photos app without PowerShell?

Reinstalling typically requires PowerShell commands, but you can also try uninstalling via Settings and then downloading it again from the Microsoft Store.

How do I know if Windows updates are causing the issue?

Check the update history in Settings. If problems started after a specific update, uninstalling that update temporarily may help diagnose the cause.

Is there a way to back up the Photos app data?

The app mainly stores settings and cache locally. Your photos are stored separately in your Pictures folder or other locations you choose.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the Photos app still does not work, you may consider these final options:

  • Create a new user account: Sometimes account-specific issues affect app functionality. Creating a fresh user profile can help isolate the problem.
  • Perform a system restore: Restore your PC to a point when the Photos app was working correctly.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Photos app support page for more help and resources.
  • Consider a Windows reset: As a last resort, resetting Windows 10 while keeping your files can fix deeper system issues affecting apps.

Conclusion

Fixing the Windows 10 Photos app often involves simple steps like resetting the app or updating it through the Microsoft Store. If those don’t work, reinstalling via PowerShell or running system troubleshooters can resolve more complex problems.

Always start with the easiest methods and move to advanced options only if necessary. Remember to keep your system updated and maintain sufficient storage to avoid future issues.

If all else fails, alternative photo viewers can provide temporary relief while you seek further support. With these solutions, you should be able to enjoy hassle-free access to your photos again.

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