Windows 11 Important update for Microsoft Photos app

Microsoft’s Photos app for Windows 11 is getting a fresh coat of paint. The update, which is now available, improves, among other things, the overview of tools during image processing, combines frequently used functions, and simplifies entry. After a first major update last September, it has become comparatively quiet about the Photos app, which was refreshed with Windows 11.

Now the Redmond-based company is releasing another update that will be distributed not only for insiders but for all users of the new operating system via the Microsoft Store. As is well known, the delivery takes place in waves, which is why it can take a few days for the new version 2021.21120.8011.0 to reach the last Windows 11 user.

Improved menu, new filters and easy crop

The new features of the updated photos app are primarily shown in the “Edit” menu of the minimalist image editing software, XDA Developers reports. Here the controls for cropping, selecting filters, and other adjustments have been rearranged and labeled. In addition, Microsoft has integrated the “drawing” tool (English mark-up) for additional labels directly into the improved menu, so that these can now be added while the images are being edited. Apart from that, the options for cropping photos have been revised.

The cutting to different aspect ratios and turning and mirroring are thus made much easier. In addition, the display is expanded to include an exact specification of the image resolution, and the background of PNG files is temporarily colored with tiles when cutting. Professionals know it from alternative programs such as Adobe Photoshop, among other things. There are also new filters and an improved overview in the “Customize” area.

The update seems to drop two functions in addition to the new features. The corrections for red eyes and spots are not available in the new version. It is not yet known whether these will be added again in a later patch.