Many Windows users enjoy using the Microsoft Photos app for viewing their pictures and videos. The main reason for its popularity is simple: it is the default media viewer in Windows. So, typically, when you click on an image or video, the Photos app opens automatically.
Recently, Microsoft rolled out updates for the Photos app on Windows 11. One significant change is the shift from the UWP format to the Windows App SDK. Additionally, Microsoft is integrating AI features into the app, similar to updates seen in other parts of the operating system.
Some users have observed that the Photos app starts up automatically with Windows 11. While I couldn’t confirm this on devices with Windows 11 version 24H2, it’s possible that Microsoft is still working on this feature or rolling it out gradually to gather user opinions.
Good to know: This update started in June for users enrolled in the Insider program. Now, Microsoft is making the new version available for stable Windows 11 systems and has mentioned that Windows 10 will also receive this update.
The changes are included in version 2024.11050.3002.0 of the Photos app. To see your current version, open the Microsoft Photos app on your device and go to Settings; you can find the version number under “about” at the bottom of that page.
Common issues reported by users of the updated Photos app include:
- The app launches automatically when the operating system starts, potentially slowing down the PC’s boot process.
- The app may take longer to open than it used to.
While having the Photos app open at startup can be beneficial for those who use it often, it can be a hassle for those who don’t, as it can slow down the Windows startup unnecessarily.
How to stop the Photos app from starting with Windows
You can use built-in administrative tools to change whether the Photos app runs at startup. Here’s how to do it:
- Click on Start.
- Open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Apps > Startup.
- Locate Photos in the list.
- Set Photos to Off.
This will prevent the app from launching automatically with Windows 11. It won’t interfere with any functions for those who don’t use the app. However, users who do may find a delay during the app’s first launch after this change.
You can also use Autoruns, a comprehensive startup manager, to oversee the Photos app and any other applications that have added themselves to the startup list.
Additionally, the older version of the Microsoft Photos app can still be installed on Windows, even though it has been supplanted by the new one.
Explore alternatives
Tip: If you’re considering alternatives, you might want to check out lightweight photo viewers such as IrfanView or FastStone Image Viewer. While they might not have some advanced features, they can fulfill your needs without putting too much strain on your system.
Monitoring your startup applications is a smart approach to improving your computer’s efficiency. Oftentimes, it’s the unnoticed background processes that can greatly affect your system’s speed.
When upgrading to Windows 11 version 24H2, make sure to review your startup settings to ensure that no unwanted applications have made their way onto the startup list.
Image Source: diy13 / Shutterstock
