Microsoft is testing a new update for the Windows 11 Photos app that adds new features to the Windows app. In fact, this is one of the most substantial Photos updates and makes the app more powerful than ever.
In this latest release, Microsoft is giving the Windows 11 Photos app a new Slideshow feature that allows users to see memories/images in a slideshow format. These collections include animations, transitions, and music. It is even possible to select which photos are included in a slideshow.
Elsewhere, Microsoft is also adding the Timeline Scrollbar, which the company says its a highly requested feature. This tool collects photos by year and month, which makes it easier to locate the photos you want to see. Furthermore, it is possible to jump through points in time using the scrollbar.
Lastly, a new Spot Fix feature is also incoming. This tool provides an easy way to quickly edit photos by removing blemishes and unwanted sections. Microsoft says this is an ideal tool for quick enhancements to make photos look as good as possible.
Spot Fix is a welcome addition considering Microsoft decided to depreceate editing tools in the Photos app last year.
What Else to Expect in Windows 11 Photos
Alongside the new features, Microsoft is also prepping a bunch of fixes and improvements for the Photos app. For example, Auto Enhance will be available directly in the app without needing to install the add-on. Microsoft also says importing photos to external devices is now simpler thanks to drag and drop capabilities.
It is worth noting that this update for Windows 11 Photos is currently in preview on the Canary and Dev Channels on the Windows Insider Program. You need to be running Photos app version 2023.11.050.2013.0 or newer.
If you are running that build or higher you do not need to do anything. All of the changes will apply automatically through a behind-the-scenes update.
Tip of the day: It's a good idea to backup your computer on a regular basis, and the most fool-proof way is to manually create a disk image and save it to an external hard drive.
