Microsoft recently announced the migration of its Photos app from the Universal Windows Platform (UWP) to the Windows App SDK. This transition, detailed in a Windows Developer Blog post, aims to improve performance, enable new features, and provide a more consistent user experience across Windows devices.

While the update brings several enhancements, it also introduces a significant challenge for business users. According to Microsoft’s release health documentation, devices with the BlockNonAdminUserInstall policy enabled may experience issues launching the updated Photos app. This policy, often implemented via Configuration Service Provider (CSP) settings in enterprise environments, prevents non-admin users from installing packaged Windows apps.

Key Changes and Benefits

The move to the Windows App SDK includes several key improvements:

• Enhanced Performance: The new framework allows for faster load times and smoother operation.
• New Features: Users can expect advanced editing tools, better integration with cloud services, and more frequent updates.
• Consistency: The update aligns the Photos app with other modern Windows applications, providing a unified experience across devices.

Impact on Business Users

However, the update’s compatibility with certain enterprise settings poses a challenge. Specifically, users on devices with the BlockNonAdminUserInstall policy enabled may find that the Photos app fails to start. This issue manifests as the app showing a spinning circle before disappearing, and is linked to an Access Denied error. This is confirmed by Microsoft’s release notes, highlighting the issue as a known problem with the latest update.

Next Steps for IT Administrators

Microsoft is actively working on a resolution to address this compatibility issue. In the meantime, IT administrators are advised to monitor updates and consider temporarily adjusting CSP settings if the Photos app is critical to their operations. Keeping an eye on Microsoft’s release health page for updates is recommended.

The transition to the Windows App SDK marks a significant step forward for the Microsoft Photos app, promising enhanced features and better performance. However, businesses must navigate the temporary hurdles posed by existing CSP policies to fully benefit from these improvements.