The Microsoft Photos app has long been a staple for users looking to manage and edit their images on Windows devices. As of March 24, 2025, Microsoft has introduced an exciting update aimed at enhancing user experience and functionality through new features like Optical Character Recognition (OCR), AI editing tools, and more. This article delves into the new capabilities of the Photos app, particularly beneficial for Canadian small and medium business owners who rely on effective media management and presentation. We’ll explore how to access these updates and how you can make the most of them to elevate your business's visual marketing efforts.
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Key Takeaways
- The Microsoft Photos app now features OCR for over 160 languages, enabling easy text extraction from images.
- New AI editing tools and Visual Search shortcuts enhance the user experience directly from File Explorer.
- The update includes new gallery options and a Copilot button for AI assistance in editing and photography.
Overview of New Features in Microsoft Photos App
### Overview of New Features in Microsoft Photos App
On March 24, 2025, Microsoft initiated a phased rollout of a significant update to the Photos app, specifically aimed at Windows Insiders utilizing both Windows 11 and Windows 10 within the Release Preview Channel. As this update is progressive, users may not gain immediate access to the new capabilities. This article outlines the key enhancements introduced in this version, which promise to elevate the user experience and functionality of the app.
1. New Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Feature: A standout addition is the OCR feature that supports over 160 languages. This functionality empowers users to efficiently extract text from images, streamlining work processes. Moreover, the introduction of a 'Search in Web' function enables seamless online searches for this extracted text, making it easier to find related information without leaving the app.
2. AI Editing and Visual Search Shortcuts: The update brings exciting enhancements to File Explorer, now featuring direct shortcuts to AI editing tools and the Visual Search functionality. Users can right-click on an image to access Microsoft Designer, facilitating adding text and editing tasks. The Visual Search tool empowers users to discover similar images and products with just a click, thus saving time and effort.
3. Gallery Enhancements: To further enrich the user interface, the Photos app now incorporates a 'Show subfolders' filter in the Photos Gallery. This update allows users to effortlessly view images and videos residing in subfolders, enhancing organization and accessibility of media files considerably.
4. Copilot Integration: One of the most engaging features includes a new Copilot button that provides AI-driven assistance to users. This feature offers invaluable editing tips, insights on images, and personalized photography suggestions, supporting users in creating stunning visuals.
5. File Format Support and Bug Fixes: Additionally, this update extends support for JXL file formats, an essential upgrade given the evolving needs of users in media handling. Several bug fixes have also been applied to enhance overall application performance, particularly regarding critical features like Image Creator and Restyle Image.
To access these promising features, users are encouraged to update their app to version
2025.11030.20006.0 or higher through the Microsoft Store. Microsoft also welcomes user feedback via the Feedback Hub, fostering continued improvement of the app. This update reflects Microsoft's commitment to enhancing user experience through innovation, making it an essential update for all Canadian small and medium business owners looking to optimize their digital media management.
How to Access and Utilize These Updates
Maximizing the potential of the recent Microsoft Photos app update is vital for Canadian small and medium business owners who rely on digital media for promotion and communication. To access the new features, ensure your app is updated to version
2025.11030.20006.0 or higher by visiting the Microsoft Store. Once updated, familiarize yourself with the OCR feature, which will streamline your workflow by allowing you to extract text from images seamlessly. Utilize the AI tools and Visual Search capabilities to enhance your marketing materials and branding efforts. The integration of the Copilot function offers tailored suggestions to boost your creative processes, making it easier to produce professional-grade images for your business needs. Don't forget to make use of the organized gallery view to manage your media efficiently, ensuring that all your visual content is easily accessible and effectively curated for your audience.
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