The Photos app in Windows 10 is a powerful tool for managing and editing your photos. However, like any other application, it can sometimes malfunction or become corrupted, leading to a frustrating user experience. In such cases, uninstalling and reinstalling the app can be a viable solution. But how do you do it? In this article, we will walk you through the process of uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app in Windows 10, highlighting the key steps and considerations along the way.
Understanding the Photos App
Before we dive into the uninstallation and reinstallation process, it’s essential to understand the role of the Photos app in Windows 10. The Photos app is a built-in application that allows you to view, edit, and manage your photos and videos. It provides a range of features, including automatic photo tagging, people recognition, and video editing capabilities. The app is also integrated with other Microsoft services, such as OneDrive, allowing you to access your photos and videos across multiple devices.
Why Uninstall the Photos App?
There are several reasons why you might want to uninstall the Photos app in Windows 10. Some of the most common reasons include:
The app is not functioning correctly, and you want to start with a clean slate.
You prefer to use a different photo management application.
You want to free up disk space on your computer.
You are experiencing issues with the app’s performance or compatibility.
Precautions Before Uninstalling
Before you uninstall the Photos app, it’s essential to take a few precautions to ensure that you don’t lose any important data. Make sure to backup your photos and videos to an external drive or cloud storage service, such as OneDrive or Google Drive. This will ensure that your files are safe and can be easily restored if needed.
Uninstalling the Photos App
Uninstalling the Photos app in Windows 10 is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:
Method 1: Uninstalling from the Settings App
To uninstall the Photos app from the Settings app, follow these steps:
Open the Settings app by clicking on the Start button and selecting the gear icon.
Click on “Apps” and then select “Apps & features” from the left-hand menu.
Scroll down the list of installed apps and click on “Microsoft Photos”.
Click on the “Uninstall” button to remove the app from your computer.
Method 2: Uninstalling from the Control Panel
Alternatively, you can uninstall the Photos app from the Control Panel. To do this:
Open the Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu.
Click on “Programs and Features” and then select “Uninstall a program” from the left-hand menu.
Scroll down the list of installed programs and click on “Microsoft Photos”.
Click on the “Uninstall” button to remove the app from your computer.
Method 3: Uninstalling using PowerShell
If you prefer to use PowerShell, you can uninstall the Photos app using the following command:
Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.Windows.Photos | Remove-AppxPackage
This command will remove the Photos app from your computer.
Reinstalling the Photos App
Once you have uninstalled the Photos app, you can reinstall it from the Microsoft Store. Here’s how:
Reinstalling from the Microsoft Store
To reinstall the Photos app from the Microsoft Store, follow these steps:
Open the Microsoft Store app by clicking on the Start button and selecting the Store icon.
Search for “Microsoft Photos” in the search bar.
Click on the “Microsoft Photos” app icon to open its page.
Click on the “Install” button to download and install the app.
Reinstalling using PowerShell
Alternatively, you can reinstall the Photos app using PowerShell. To do this:
Open PowerShell as an administrator.
Run the following command: Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register “$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml”}
This command will reinstall the Photos app on your computer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter any issues during the uninstallation or reinstallation process, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. Make sure that you have administrative privileges to uninstall and reinstall the app. Additionally, check for any pending updates in the Microsoft Store, as these may resolve any issues you are experiencing.
Common Error Messages
If you encounter any error messages during the uninstallation or reinstallation process, don’t panic. Some common error messages include:
“Error code: 0x80073CF9” – This error message indicates that the app is currently in use and cannot be uninstalled.
“Error code: 0x80070005” – This error message indicates that you do not have administrative privileges to uninstall the app.
To resolve these issues, try closing the app and restarting your computer, or logging in as an administrator.
Conclusion
Uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app in Windows 10 is a relatively straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve any issues you are experiencing with the app. Remember to backup your photos and videos before uninstalling the app, and check for any pending updates in the Microsoft Store. If you encounter any issues during the process, don’t hesitate to try the troubleshooting steps outlined above. With a little patience and persistence, you should be able to get the Photos app up and running smoothly on your Windows 10 computer.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Uninstalling from the Settings app | This method involves uninstalling the Photos app from the Settings app. |
| Uninstalling from the Control Panel | This method involves uninstalling the Photos app from the Control Panel. |
| Uninstalling using PowerShell | This method involves uninstalling the Photos app using PowerShell. |
By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to successfully uninstall and reinstall the Photos app in Windows 10. Remember to always backup your data and check for updates to ensure a smooth and trouble-free experience.
What are the reasons to uninstall and reinstall the Photos app in Windows 10?
Uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app in Windows 10 can be a useful troubleshooting step for resolving various issues related to the app. Some common reasons to uninstall and reinstall the Photos app include corrupted app data, issues with syncing photos across devices, and problems with the app’s performance or functionality. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, uninstalling and reinstalling the app can help to reset its settings and resolve any underlying problems.
By reinstalling the Photos app, you can start with a clean slate and ensure that the app is working properly. Additionally, reinstalling the app can also help to update it to the latest version, which may include bug fixes and new features. It’s also worth noting that uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app will not delete any of your photos or other data, so you don’t need to worry about losing any of your important files. Overall, uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app can be a simple and effective way to resolve issues and get the app working smoothly again.
How do I uninstall the Photos app in Windows 10?
To uninstall the Photos app in Windows 10, you can use the Settings app or the PowerShell command-line tool. Using the Settings app, you can go to the “Apps & features” section, search for the Photos app, and click on the “Uninstall” button to remove it. Alternatively, you can use PowerShell to uninstall the app by running a command that removes the app package. Both methods are relatively straightforward and can be completed in just a few steps.
Regardless of which method you choose, it’s a good idea to make sure that you’re uninstalling the correct app and that you’re using the correct commands or options. It’s also worth noting that uninstalling the Photos app will not affect any other apps or features on your system, so you don’t need to worry about causing any unintended consequences. Once you’ve uninstalled the Photos app, you can reinstall it from the Microsoft Store or by using PowerShell to reinstall the app package.
Can I reinstall the Photos app from the Microsoft Store?
Yes, you can reinstall the Photos app from the Microsoft Store. To do this, simply open the Microsoft Store app, search for the Photos app, and click on the “Install” button to download and install it. The Microsoft Store will handle the installation process, and you’ll be able to start using the Photos app again once it’s installed. Reinstalling the Photos app from the Microsoft Store is a convenient and straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps.
Reinstalling the Photos app from the Microsoft Store also ensures that you’re getting the latest version of the app, which may include new features and bug fixes. Additionally, reinstalling the app from the Microsoft Store can help to resolve any issues related to corrupted app data or outdated app versions. Once you’ve reinstalled the Photos app, you can start using it again and enjoy its features and functionality.
Will uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app delete my photos and data?
No, uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app will not delete any of your photos or other data. The Photos app stores your photos and other data in a separate location, such as the “Pictures” folder or OneDrive, so uninstalling and reinstalling the app will not affect these files. Your photos and data will remain intact, and you’ll be able to access them again once you’ve reinstalled the Photos app.
It’s worth noting that uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app will reset its settings and preferences, so you may need to reconfigure the app to your liking once you’ve reinstalled it. However, your photos and data will remain safe, and you won’t need to worry about losing any of your important files. If you’re concerned about data loss, you can always back up your photos and data to an external drive or cloud storage service before uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app.
How do I troubleshoot issues with the Photos app after reinstalling it?
If you’re experiencing issues with the Photos app after reinstalling it, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. First, try restarting your system and see if the issue persists. You can also try checking for updates to the Photos app and installing any available updates. Additionally, you can try resetting the app’s settings and preferences to their default values.
If none of these steps resolve the issue, you can try more advanced troubleshooting techniques, such as checking the app’s error logs or using the Windows Troubleshooter tool to diagnose and fix problems. You can also try searching online for solutions to specific issues or seeking help from Microsoft support or other online resources. By taking a systematic and methodical approach to troubleshooting, you should be able to identify and resolve any issues with the Photos app after reinstalling it.
Can I use PowerShell to reinstall the Photos app?
Yes, you can use PowerShell to reinstall the Photos app. To do this, you’ll need to use the “Get-AppxPackage” and “Add-AppxPackage” cmdlets to remove and reinstall the app package. This method can be useful if you’re having trouble reinstalling the app from the Microsoft Store or if you need to reinstall the app on multiple systems.
Using PowerShell to reinstall the Photos app requires some technical expertise, so it’s not recommended for beginners. However, if you’re comfortable using PowerShell, you can use it to reinstall the Photos app and other Windows 10 apps. Just be sure to follow the correct syntax and commands, and make sure you’re using the latest version of PowerShell. With PowerShell, you can automate the reinstallation process and make it easier to manage apps on multiple systems.