Windows 11 Photos App Not Working: Error Codes & Troubleshooting Tips

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The Windows 11 Photos app is a convenient tool for viewing, editing, and organizing your photos. However, like any app, it may occasionally encounter issues or error codes. Whether the Photos app isn’t opening, crashes frequently, or simply won’t work as expected, this guide covers common troubleshooting tips to resolve these issues.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to identify and fix common problems, understand error codes, and know when to seek additional help.

Why Is My Windows 11 Photos App Not Working?

When the Photos app stops working in Windows 11, it can be frustrating. Here are a few common reasons for this issue:

Outdated software versions
Corrupted app data or cache
System compatibility issues
Conflicting third-party software
Lack of required permissions

In the sections below, we’ll walk through troubleshooting methods for common error codes and problems with the Windows 11 Photos app.

Common Error Codes for Windows 11 Photos App

Here are some common error codes users encounter with the Photos app on Windows 11:

Error Code 0x80070422 – Usually indicates a service-related issue.
Error Code 0x80070520 – May signal permission problems or app corruption.
Error Code 0x80040154 – Indicates a class not registered error.
Error Code 0x8007007e – Usually related to missing dependencies.

Below, we’ll go through troubleshooting tips for each error code to help restore your Photos app functionality.

Basic Troubleshooting Tips for Windows 11 Photos App Issues

If your Windows 11 Photos app isn’t working, try these basic troubleshooting steps first.

1. Restart the Photos App

Closing and reopening the Photos app can resolve minor, temporary issues. Simply exit the app, then reopen it to see if it starts working again.

2. Update Windows 11

Keeping your system updated can resolve many app issues. To check for updates:

Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
Install any pending updates and restart your computer.

3. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a full restart is all you need. Reboot your system and try opening the Photos app again.

4. Check System Requirements

The Photos app may need certain system requirements to work properly. Ensure that your Windows 11 version meets these requirements by checking the Microsoft website or system documentation.

5. Clear the App Cache

Corrupted cache files can cause the Photos app to malfunction. Here’s how to clear the cache:

Right-click on the Start button.
Select Apps and Features.
Find Photos in the list, click it, and select Advanced options.
Click on Reset under the Reset section.

This clears the app’s cache and resets it without affecting your personal data.

Troubleshooting Specific Photos App Error Codes

If the general tips didn’t work, try these solutions for specific error codes.

Fix for Error Code 0x80070422: Service-Related Issue

Error Code 0x80070422 suggests a problem with the app’s services. Here’s how to resolve it:

Check Windows Update Services:
- Go to Services by typing it in the search bar.
- Find Windows Update and make sure it’s set to Automatic and is running.
- Restart the service if necessary.
Update the Photos App:
- Open the Microsoft Store, go to Library, and check for any updates to the Photos app.

Fix for Error Code 0x80070520: Permission or App Corruption Issue

This error usually relates to permission issues or corrupted app files.

Run Photos as Administrator:
- Right-click the Photos app shortcut, select Run as administrator, and see if the issue is resolved.
Reinstall the Photos App:
- Open PowerShell as Administrator by typing “PowerShell” in the Windows search bar.
- Enter the command below to uninstall Photos:powershellCopy codeget-appxpackage *Microsoft.Windows.Photos* | remove-appxpackage
- Reinstall it from the Microsoft Store by searching for “Photos.”

Fix for Error Code 0x80040154: Class Not Registered

This error often indicates a system registry issue with the app’s registration.

Re-register the Photos App:
- Open PowerShell as Administrator.
- Enter the command:powershellCopy codeAdd-AppxPackage -register "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.Windows.Photos_*\AppxManifest.xml" -DisableDevelopmentMode
- Restart your computer and check if the Photos app is working.
Use Windows Troubleshooter:
- Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter.

Fix for Error Code 0x8007007e: Missing Dependencies

Error Code 0x8007007e typically means the app is missing some dependencies.

Check for Windows Updates:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
Install Missing Libraries:
- Go to the Microsoft Store and search for Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable. Install any missing packages as required by the Photos app.

Advanced Troubleshooting for Persistent Windows 11 Photos App Issues

If your issue persists, try these more advanced solutions.

1. Perform a System File Check

Corrupted system files can interfere with the Photos app. Here’s how to check for and repair them:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type:cmdCopy codesfc /scannow
Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete.

2. Run DISM Command

The DISM tool repairs Windows system images, which may fix Photos app issues.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type:cmdCopy codeDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Press Enter and allow the scan to complete.

3. Create a New User Profile

If the issue is related to your Windows user profile, try creating a new one:

Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
Select Add account and follow the prompts.
Log in with the new account and try using the Photos app.

Preventing Windows 11 Photos App Issues in the Future

To avoid Photos app issues in the future, consider these preventive tips:

Regularly Update Windows and Apps: Keeping your system and apps up to date helps prevent bugs and compatibility issues.
Clear Cache Periodically: Clearing cache periodically can prevent performance slowdowns.
Use Official Microsoft Tools: When troubleshooting, use official tools like the Windows Troubleshooter to prevent accidental changes to system files.

When to Seek Further Assistance

If none of the troubleshooting steps above worked, it may be time to contact Microsoft Support. You can reach out through the Microsoft Help Center for personalized support if there’s a deeper issue with the Photos app or system software.

Conclusion

The Windows 11 Photos app not working can be frustrating, but with these error codes and troubleshooting tips, you’re well-equipped to handle the most common issues. By following these steps, you should be able to quickly diagnose and resolve problems. Remember, if your issue persists, Microsoft Support is available to assist further.