7 Ways to Overcome JPG Files Can't Open in Windows 10

If JPG files won't open in Windows 10, there are a few things you can do to fix this annoying problem.

There are times when, instead of opening a JPG file, a Windows 10 computer displays an error message that says "this app didn't start". Opening a JPG file is a simple task for computers, and it should be possible whenever you want.

However, out-of-date Windows versions, corrupted system files, or third-party application conflicts might stop you from opening JPG files. Whatever the cause, our guide will help you to fix this problem.

1. Copy JPG File And Rename

Sometimes, you can't open a JPG file due to wrong file extension. Thus, renaming the file should fix the problem.

Rename it and make sure to add the .jpg extension. Windows will display a message saying that the file might become unusable, so make sure you copy the original to a different location before editing the name.

It's better to try this method with a single photo to make sure it works before renaming multiple files in bulk.

2. Resize Files

If you have a camera or smartphone capable of taking high-quality pictures, you might enjoy taking some very sharp and clear photos. The only drawback is that Windows 10 may not be able to open these large files with its default applications. To fix this, you can use an image editor or web app to reduce the size of the JPG file.

3. Update the Microsoft Photos application

Update the Microsoft Photos App

On Windows computers, Microsoft Photos is the default application for opening JPG files. If the application is out of date or corrupted, it will cause all kinds of problems, and the inability to open JPG files could be one of them. Updating Microsoft Photos should fix any bugs, errors or technical glitches.

Open the Microsoft Store app, click the three-dot menu, and select Downloads and updates. Then check if the Photos app is listed under Available Updates.

4. Change the Default Image Viewer Application

If you have installed a third-party image viewer application on your computer, it could conflict with the default application and stop it from opening JPG files. To fix this, you have to change the default image viewer application.

Change the Default Image Viewer Application

1. Right-click Start and select Settings.

2. Go to Apps > Default apps.

3. Click the photo viewer under Default apps and select Photos from the list.

5. Repair the Microsoft Photos App

Microsoft Photos may stop working properly due to missing or corrupted files. In this case, you have to repair the application. This has the advantage that Windows will check the Microsoft Photos file and Registry entries when trying to repair it, but it will retain the application's current settings.

Follow these steps to repair Microsoft Photos:

Repair the Microsoft Photos App

1. Press Win + I to open the Settings menu.

2. Go to Apps > Apps & features.

3. Select an image viewer and click Advanced options.

4. Scroll down and click Repair.

If this doesn't fix the problem, you can also reset the app. Follow the instructions above and select Reset. This will delete the application data from the computer. If you choose to reset the app, you'll need to reintegrate OneDrive to sync photos.

6. Run an SFC Scan

Run SFC Scan

Corrupted system files and settings might stop the computer from opening JPG files. Thankfully, Windows has a built-in tool you can use to fix the problem in no time. SFC (System File Checker) will find and automatically replace corrupted files on your computer.

To use this tool, run Command Prompt with admin privileges. Then, type sfc /scannow and press Enter. The length of the scan will depend on your system resources, but once it is finished, it will display a message informing you of the detected issues. After the scan is complete, restart the computer and check if the problem is resolved.

7. Open JPG Files With Other Applications

If you've updated and repaired the app, changed the file size, and still can't open JPG files with Windows 10's default apps, try using a different photo viewer. There are many options available and there is a good chance that you already have them installed on your computer.

Conclusion

So that's how to fix JPG files won't open in Windows 10. Microsoft Photos or any other image viewer isn't the most spectacular app on your computer, but you definitely need one. As shown above, there are some Windows tricks or tools you can try when JPG files won't open in Windows 10.