Remember when we speculated about when the Photos app would finally get some Copilot love? Well, the wait is officially over! Microsoft has rolled out a shiny new update for the Photos app on Windows 11 (and even Windows 10 for Insiders in the Release Preview Channel), and it’s packed with AI-powered goodness. Let’s dive into the details and see what’s new.
The highlight of this update is the brand-new Copilot button. Sitting pretty at the top of the Photos Viewer, this feature brings AI right to your fingertips. With Copilot, you can:
- Get Photo Editing Tips: Think of it as having a photography coach in your pocket.
- Discover Image Insights: Learn interesting tidbits about your photos.
- Receive Framing Suggestions: Sharpen your photography skills with personalized advice.
It’s like having a creative partner who’s always ready to help you make your photos shine.
OCR and Web Search: A Match Made in Productivity Heaven
The Photos app now boasts an upgraded Optical Character Recognition (OCR) feature that supports over 160 languages. But that’s not all—Microsoft has added a “Search in Web” functionality. This means you can extract text from images and instantly search for it online. Whether it’s a document, a note, or even a screenshot, this feature makes finding information a breeze.
File Explorer Shortcuts: AI at Your Service
Microsoft has also introduced new shortcuts in File Explorer. Right-click on an image, and you’ll find options to:
- Create with Designer: Add text, tweak compositions, or enhance colors.
- Erase Object: Remove unwanted elements from your photos.
- Visual Search with Bing: Look up similar images, related products, and more.
These shortcuts make it easier than ever to access AI tools without even opening the Photos app.
Gallery Improvements and More
For those who love organizing their photo collections, the update includes a new filter option to show subfolder images and videos in the Gallery. Plus, the app now supports JXL files and comes with bug fixes to improve overall performance.
How to Get the Update
If you’re a Windows Insider, you can update your Photos app to version 2025.11030.20006.0 or higher via the Microsoft Store. Keep in mind that the rollout is gradual, so it might take a little time to reach everyone.
Final Thoughts
This update is a game-changer for the Photos app, blending AI-powered features with everyday usability. Whether you’re a casual user or a photography enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and explore the new Copilot-powered Photos app!
What do you think of these updates? Let’s chat in the comments!
