October 19, 2026, 5:53 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Microsoft is significantly revamping the Photos app in Windows 11. The new version is initially available in the Windows Insider Program and introduces three major changes. The gallery, photo editing, and photo viewing are getting updates. The new search feature is expected to be particularly useful.
A Gallery for PC and Cloud
In the future, the Photos app will consolidate images and videos from multiple sources in one place. In addition to locally stored files, content from OneDrive and Apple’s iCloud can be displayed. New filters sort the collection by people and storage locations. The natural language search is also intriguing. Instead of typing file names, descriptions like “sunset on the beach” should lead to the desired photo. With “Moments,” Microsoft also automatically creates retrospectives from OneDrive photos.
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Microsoft Expands the Photo Editor
Microsoft is also enhancing the editing features. The tools will now be divided into cropping, enhancing, repairing, and stylizing. An AI-powered repair function can remove marked objects from a photo. With “Relight,” up to three virtual light sources can be added later, and color and intensity can be adjusted. HDR is also supported. HEIC and WebP files can be edited and saved in their original format.
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Photos to Open Significantly Faster
Microsoft promises more speed as well. The new viewer is expected to start 15 percent faster on average, and up to 30 percent faster for HEIC files. The editor is expected to load 25 percent faster.
It is not yet clear when the update will be available to all Windows 11 users. However, it is likely not far off, as it is in the final round of the Insider Program.