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How to Fix JPG Files Not Opening After a Windows Update

Huma Ashraf ChHuma Ashraf Ch Sep 27, 2026 870 views

Question details

Users are unable to open JPG image files after installing a Windows system update, frequently encountering a specific application error.

How to Fix JPG Files Not Opening After a Windows Update
Product
Windows / Microsoft Photos
Device & OS
Windows
Scenario
Attempting to open and view standard JPG images from the local drive after a recent Windows update.
Observed behavior
JPG files fail to open and trigger a 'Not implemented' error message, while other file types like Office documents continue to function normally.
Before you start

Verify that your JPG files are not corrupted by attempting to open them in a web browser like Chrome or Edge. Ensure your computer has a stable internet connection to download any additional repair packages or updates.

Solution 1Recommended

Repair or Reset the Windows Photos App

Resetting the default image application can resolve software corruption that occasionally occurs during a system update.

The Windows Photos app is the default viewer for JPG files. When its core files or registry entries are disturbed by an update, repairing or resetting the app from the Settings menu can cleanly restore its functionality without affecting your personal photos.

1
Access Windows Settings

Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open the main Settings menu.

2
Navigate to Installed Apps

Click on 'Apps' from the left-hand navigation pane, then select 'Installed apps' (or 'Apps & features' on older Windows versions).

3
Locate the Photos App

Scroll down the list or use the search bar to find 'Microsoft Photos'. Click the three-dot icon next to it and select 'Advanced options'.

4
Repair and Reset

Scroll down to the Reset section. First, click 'Repair' and test your JPG files. If the error persists, return to this menu and click 'Reset' to clear the application's cached data completely.

Repair or Reset the Windows Photos App
Safe Process: Resetting the Photos app will not delete any of your actual image files stored on the computer.
Built-in Image Viewer

View Images Seamlessly with WPS Office

If your Windows default apps are failing after an update, WPS Office provides a reliable alternative. Its built-in lightweight image viewer (WPS Picture) allows you to effortlessly open, view, and manage JPG files while continuing to handle all your daily document needs.

  1. 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website to download the free installer, run the setup file, and complete the quick installation process on your Windows computer.
  2. 2. Open Your Images: Locate the JPG file that refuses to open, right-click it, navigate to 'Open with', and choose 'WPS Picture' from the list of available applications.
  3. 3. Set WPS Picture as Default: To prevent future errors, check the box labeled 'Always use this app to open .jpg files' when selecting WPS Picture, ensuring your images always open smoothly.
Built-in WPS Picture viewer opens JPG, PNG, and BMP formats instantly without relying on Windows PhotosExcellent Microsoft Office format compatibility for viewing and editing Word, Excel, and PowerPoint filesLightweight architecture ensures smooth performance even on older hardware or after problematic OS updatesAll-in-one workspace minimizes the need to install separate applications for PDFs, documents, and images
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does a Windows update cause the 'Not implemented' error?

This error generally occurs when a Windows update interrupts the registry keys or core dynamic link libraries (DLLs) associated with the default Microsoft Photos application, causing the operating system to lose the correct path to execute the software.

Can a bad Windows update delete my personal JPG files?

No, standard Windows updates do not delete personal files. If you cannot view your JPGs, it is an issue with the application assigned to read them, not a loss of the actual image data.

How do I check if there is a patch for this image bug?

Microsoft often releases hotfixes for known update bugs. Go to Start > Settings > Windows Update, click 'Check for updates', install any pending patches, and restart your computer to apply them.

Can I use WPS Office to view my images instead of Windows Photos?

Yes, WPS Office comes with a built-in utility called WPS Picture. You can right-click any standard image file, select 'Open with', and choose WPS Picture for a fast, reliable viewing experience.