FIX: 'Not Implemented' error when opening photos or images on Windows 10.

If you're unable to open photos or images due to error "Not Implemented", continue reading below to fix the problem.

Since October 2024, several users have reported, that after installing the latest updates, they are unable to open png, jpg, or gif images with the Windows Photo app with a "Not Implemented" error.

Additionally, when they right-click on the image and select "Open with" to choose another program to view the image, File Explorer freezes.

The solution to these issues is to restart Explorer or the computer, but since it is temporary and the problem reappears after a while, follow the instructions below for a permanent solution.

How to fix "Not Implemented" error when opening images with Windows Photos.*

* Suggestion: Before proceeding with the methods below, check for and install the latest updates, as Microsoft may have resolved the issue in a recent update.

Method 1. Set Photos as the Default App in Photo viewer.

The first method to fix the "Not Implemented" error when using Windows Photos as the default image viewer is to set it as the default Photo viewer. To do that:

1. Navigate to Settings > Apps > Default apps.

2. Under Photo viewer click the plus symbol (+) Choose a default.

3. Select the Photos app from the list.
4. Now try to open a photo/image and if the "Not Implemented" error persists, move on to the next method.

Method 2. Use the Photos Legacy app as your default program for your Photos/Pictures.

Since the reported issue occurred after installing the new Photos app, download and install the old Photos app, and use it to open your photos/images.

1. Open the Photos app and click the Settings menu.

2. Scroll down and under "Photos Legacy" click Get Photos Legacy.

3. Once the Microsoft Store opens, click Get to install the Microsoft Photos Legacy app.

4. Wait the download/installation to complete and then click Open. Then close Photos Legacy.

5. Now double-click on any image file and when prompted "How do you want to open this file? ",* select Photos Legacy, check to Always use this app to open this type of files and click OK.

* Note: If you don't see this prompt, right-click on the image file, select Open with, then Choose another app and select Photos Legacy.

Method 3. Open Images/Photos using a Third-Party image viewer.

Another method to solve the "Not Implement" error when trying to open images with Windows Photos app, is to use a free third-party image viewer, like IrfanView or XnView MP.

That's it! Which method worked for you?
Let me know if this guide has helped you by leaving your comment about your experience. Please like and share this guide to help others.

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Konstantinos Tsoukalas

Konstantinos is the founder and administrator of Wintips.org. Since 1995 he works and provides IT support as a computer and network expert to individuals and large companies. He is specialized in solving problems related to Windows or other Microsoft products (Windows Server, Office, Microsoft 365, etc.).

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