Microsoft's Photos App Update Hides Key Features Behind Exclusive Copilot PC Requirement

Microsoft's Photos App Update Brings AI-Powered Organization, But Locks Key Features Behind Copilot PCs Microsoft has released a new version of its Photos app, boasting advanced features for organizing and enhancing digital images. However, the update requires users to have a Copilot PC, which may limit accessibility for many Windows users. The updated app relies on local artificial intelligence computation to automatically classify pictures into categories such as screenshots, receipts, documents, and handwritten notes. This system is designed to reduce time spent searching through unstructured folders. Microsoft claims that the classification works across languages, allowing users to tag documents in various scripts correctly. "We're excited about this new update," said a Microsoft spokesperson. "The AI-powered photo organization will make it easier for users to manage their digital photos and documents." However, the update's reliance on Copilot PCs may create a barrier for some users. Copilot PCs are high-end machines that require significant computational power, which not all Windows users possess. Microsoft has emphasized that the Photos app is not a dedicated photo editor, but rather a tool focused on organization and enhancement. The company notes that the app can upscale low-resolution images with AI and perform other tasks. The update brings several new features to the Photos app, including automatic classification using an onboard neural processing unit. This technology allows the app to scan libraries of pictures and sort them into categories quickly and accurately. Microsoft has released a statement explaining that the company is committed to making its products accessible to as many users as possible. However, the company also notes that some features may require more advanced hardware to function properly. The release of the updated Photos app comes at a time when AI-powered photo organization is becoming increasingly popular. Other companies, such as Google and Amazon, have released similar tools in recent years. Microsoft's update is now live in the Microsoft Store, but users will need to ensure their PCs meet the minimum requirements for Copilot functionality. The company has not announced any plans to make the features available on lower-end hardware. As AI technology continues to advance, it remains to be seen how companies like Microsoft will balance accessibility with the need for powerful computational resources. For now, users who can access the updated Photos app may find the new features to be a valuable addition to their digital photo management toolkit. *Reporting by Techradar.*