New Windows 11 Photos app in testing among Dev Channel Insiders
A new Photos app is on the way to Windows 11, and Insiders can try it out now.
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What you need to know
Microsoft recently outlined its plans to bring new features to Windows 11 in the future. Rather than only including new features within major annual updates, the company will release them gradually throughout the year. The first feature drop, which is expected in October, will include a new Photos experience. The new Photos app is now in testing among Insiders.
Microsoft’s Dave Grochocki shared a blog post today about the new Photos app. It features a new gallery, simplified browsing, and an improved file management system. It’s available now for some Dev Channel Insiders, meaning that only select users within the Dev Channel can try the new Photos app at the moment.
Microsoft outlined several new features in ablog post:
The new Photos app (version 2022.31090.16004.0 and higher) will replace the current Photos app in future releases of Windows. Unlike the previous version of Photos, the new Photos app will not have a video editor. Windows 11 now has Clipchamp as its inbox video editor, so the Photos app no longer needs one.
The legacy Photos app will continue to be available through the Microsoft Store.
When the new Photos app rolls out in October, it will be part of a feature drop that includes tabs in File Explorer and an updated UI for Taskbar overflow.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
