The March 2025 update for Microsoft Photos is now available for Windows Insiders on Windows 10 and 11, introducing exciting new features. Key enhancements include Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for text extraction, AI editing shortcuts in File Explorer, and a new Copilot button for personalized photo tips. Users can now filter gallery content to show subfolder images, making navigation smoother.
Exciting New Features in the March 2025 Microsoft Photos Update
Windows Insiders, get ready! The latest Microsoft Photos app update is rolling out, bringing exciting new features and improvements.
What’s New?
This update introduces a powerful Optical Character Recognition (OCR) feature. Now, you can extract text from images in over 160 languages. Simply click the Scan Text button in the Photos Viewer to get started.
“With this update, we’re adding ‘Search in Web’ functionality so you can quickly search for any selected text from your images.”
After selecting text, you can search the web without leaving the app. This enhancement makes it easier to find online results from documents, notes, and screenshots.
Major Updates to Workflow
Another significant addition is the quick access to AI editing and visual search directly from File Explorer. Right-click on an image to find shortcuts to Microsoft Designer and Bing Visual Search.
For instance, you can select Create with Designer to add rich text or enhance colors. Want to remove unwanted elements? Use the Erase Object shortcut for quick edits.
Enhanced Gallery Navigation
The update also improves how you view images and videos. By enabling the Show Subfolders option, you can see all content from subfolders in the Gallery. This feature enriches your navigation experience.
Meet the New Copilot Button
One of the most exciting features is the new Copilot button in the Photos app. This integration brings AI right to your fingertips.
“With this new feature, you can effortlessly share your photos with AI to receive photo editing tips, image insights, and framing suggestions.”
These personalized recommendations can help you improve your photography skills and enhance your images.
Other Fixes and Improvements
Due to popular demand, the Photos app now supports JXL files. Additionally, bug fixes have been implemented to improve overall quality and performance, especially for the Image Creator and Restyle Image features.
To enjoy these new features, update your app to version 2025.11030.20006.0 or higher via the Microsoft Store. Keep an eye out, as the update is rolling out gradually.
As always, Microsoft values your feedback. Share your thoughts in the Feedback Hub (Win + F) under Apps > Photos.
From the Windows Blog
