The Redesigned Photos App The redesigned Microsoft Photos app has been available for users for some time now, undergoing substantial changes since early 2024. Initially revamped in January, the app received another significant update in April 2024. This alteration transitioned Photos to the Windows App SDK platform, which merges both classic and contemporary Windows APIs. However, the shift has not come without its hurdles. Notably, users have reported that the new Photos app tends to launch slowly, leading to frustration among many.
The Launch Challenge
Historically, Microsoft has championed the Universal Windows Platform (UWP) as the future for Windows applications. However, the recent pivot towards the Windows App SDK suggests a shifting paradigm. This transition allows Microsoft to modernize its app infrastructure but has raised concerns about application start-up times. Users have voiced their displeasure regarding the slower launch speed of apps built on the Windows App SDK, with many feeling that the splash screen—which temporarily appears when loading the app—only serves to highlight this delay rather than disguise it.Background Running for Speed
To address this speed issue, Microsoft has developed a workaround for the Photos app. The company plans to run the Photos app in the background automatically, allowing it to launch much faster without displaying the splash screen. Effectively, this means that the application would already be operational in the background, making user access nearly instantaneous. While this feature is enabled by default, users will have the option to disable it through the settings menu. This move places Microsoft at a crossroads between improving user experience through faster application launch times and potentially increasing background resource usage. Users will have to assess whether the trade-off of diminished performance impacts their system overall.A Consistent Experience Across Platforms
Moreover, Microsoft is not limiting the updated Photos app to Windows 11. The app, now backed by the Windows App SDK, will also be rolled out to Windows 10 users. The company emphasized its commitment to delivering a consistent and high-performance experience across various app versions. In their blog announcement, Microsoft highlighted its dedication to adapting its applications to leverage modern capabilities while ensuring compatibility with older systems. New Features in the Photos App Alongside performance improvements, the Photos app has received a host of new features. The "Gallery" section now operates with significantly enhanced speed and usability. This newly improved interface makes it simpler for users to locate and access images stored across different platforms, including local drives, OneDrive, and even iCloud accounts when linked.Key Features Include:
- Improved Gallery Functionality: The revamped "Gallery" allows users to seamlessly explore photos regardless of their storage location, creating a consolidated and simplified user experience.
- This PC Section: A new section specifically for locating content on local Windows storage has been added. This section displays images recognized by the Microsoft Photos app, making it easier for users to manage their files.
- Image Search with Bing: Another innovative feature introduced is the image search capability powered by Bing. Much like Google Lens, this functionality allows users to search their photos and gain deeper insights, such as identifying the original source of an image or obtaining more information about the visual content.
Implications for Windows Users
As a part of the broader strategy, these updates reflect Microsoft's push to work in synergy with modern user needs. By running apps in the background, Microsoft can optimize the user experience, thereby aligning more closely with contemporary user expectations of quick and clever software functionality. The integration of AI and web technologies in everyday applications signifies a crucial progression towards a more intelligent and adaptable Windows ecosystem. As users increasingly rely on their devices for creative, professional, and personal tasks, these innovations stand to enhance productivity and satisfaction.Conclusion
Microsoft’s commitment to evolving the Photos app encapsulates its broader vision for the Windows ecosystem. By focusing on app performance and incorporating advanced features, the company appears to be prioritizing user experience. As Windows users, the upcoming features and improvements to the Photos app highlight an exciting transition for managing multimedia content, reinforcing the importance of continuous technological adaptation. These changes are expected to roll out to all users by November, bringing enhanced functionality and experience to a broader audience. With ongoing refinements and an eye towards artificial intelligence integration, Microsoft is poised to redefine how users interact with media on their devices. Source: Windows Latest Microsoft says Windows 11’s Photos app will run in background to launch faster
