In June, Microsoft encountered an issue in Windows 11 where the Photos app might not launch under certain conditions. This usually occurred after the June 4 update was applied, and the app would show a spinning circle for a while and then close immediately. Microsoft discovered that this issue is more likely when certain policies are applied and has now offered a temporary solution while they work on a permanent fix.
What is the workaround for the Photos app in Windows 11?
This issue is less likely on Home editions of Windows because it occurs when the Prevent non-admin users from installing packaged Windows apps or BlockNonAdminUserInstall policies are enabled, and it is extremely rare for these policies to be enforced in home environments. The workaround spotted by Neowin includes the following steps for IT administrators:
• Get the latest Windows App SDK from Microsoft.
• Download the specific installer for your system, for example x64, x86 or arm64.
• Right-click on windowsappruntimeinstall-x64.exe and run it as administrator.
• A command prompt window will open and close automatically when the process is completed; Do not take any action while this window is open.
• IT administrators can run this installer in their own environment in a system or administrator context, and it only needs to be run once on each device, not for each user.
This is a fairly manual process, so Microsoft has emphasized that it is working on a more robust solution and will release it “soon.” Although there is no exact timeline, if you are experiencing the error mentioned above, the mentioned patch should be applied. This issue only affects customer versions of Windows 11, namely versions 23H2 and 22H2. Interestingly, Microsoft has now fixed or mitigated all documented issues in Windows 11 version 23H2, including the annoying Taskbar bug.
How to fix Windows 11 Taskbar error? Microsoft fixed the taskbar with the latest update.
Microsoft is actively working on resolving such issues for Windows 11 users. The proper functioning of a frequently used application, especially the Photos application, is of great importance in terms of user experience. Microsoft’s workaround allows IT administrators to quickly fix devices experiencing issues. However, this will be a more suitable solution for users who expect a permanent and automatic update, as well as a manual solution.
