Microsoft has released a redesigned Photos app for Windows 11, which integrates media from local storage, OneDrive, and iCloud. Users can now view and manage their entire collection in one interface, provided they enable Camera Backup in the OneDrive mobile app and configure iCloud for Windows.
The updated gallery allows users to browse files by date, organize albums, and search for images based on descriptions or people. The app supports offline access, ensuring photos remain available without an active internet connection. Additionally, the platform now includes support for SVG files.
The photo editor has been rebuilt, resulting in a 25 percent faster launch time. Tools are now organized into four categories: Crop, Enhance, Repair, and Stylize. The editor maintains HDR quality and allows users to modify and save HEIC and WebP files without changing their original format.
The image viewer features a new layout and improved performance, launching 15 percent faster than the previous version. HEIC files open up to 30 percent faster. The update is currently available to Windows Insiders, with a general release for all Windows 11 users scheduled for later this year.
