New Photos app for Windows 11

Microsoft has introduced a redesigned Photos application for Windows 11, offering enhanced AI features and better cross-platform integration. The app, launched on October 15, combines photos from the PC, OneDrive, and iCloud into one interface, allowing users to search for images using natural language instead of file names or dates.

AI features for image search

The app uses AI to let users search for images by describing them in natural language, such as "a family picnic." It also includes filters based on people, allowing users to find photos of specific individuals through facial recognition.

Automated and manual photo organization

The Moments feature automatically organizes OneDrive photos into themed memories, which can be viewed as a slideshow or recorded as a video. In contrast, albums are manually created and can be shared. Access to iCloud and OneDrive is required only for Moments, while local photos can be browsed without an internet connection.

Faster and more capable photo editor

The redesigned editor, built with WinUI 3, loads 25% faster than the previous version, according to Microsoft's tests. It supports retouching HDR photos and saves HEIC and WebP files without conversion. The Relight function, which allows users to reilluminate photos with up to three adjustable light sources, is now available on all PCs, not just those with dedicated AI chips.

Improved viewer performance and format support

The viewer component promises to open photos up to 30% faster, with an average gain of 15%, especially for HEIC files. It also displays HDR images better and supports more formats, including SVG.

Focus on speed and AI improvements

Microsoft has emphasized speed improvements, following the announcement that Windows 11 version 26H2 will free up to 2 GB of RAM. The AI features in the editor are based on an "improved AI model," though the company has not specified whether the AI runs on the PC or its servers.

Testing the new app requires Insider status

To test the new Photos app, users must join the Windows Insider program. Even after updating with the October major update, the old version of Photos remains installed. Users need a PC running Windows 11, a Microsoft account, and must accept the optional sending of diagnostic data.

Steps to join the Insider Program

Users can access the Windows Insider Program through Settings, then Windows Update and Windows Insider Program, by clicking Start and linking their Microsoft account. They can then choose a channel and restart their PC. The Photos app can be updated from the Microsoft Store.

Rollout details and recommendations

Since April 2026, the Windows Insider Program has two channels: Experimental and Beta. Microsoft has not specified which channel will receive the new Photos app first, and the rollout is done in waves. Preview versions can be unstable, so it is recommended to install them on a secondary PC or from a partition. Leaving the program no longer requires reinstalling Windows.