JPEG is a commonly used file format to store images, mainly because of its lossy compression technique which reduces your file size. But sometimes, you may encounter problems while opening these files on your Windows devices.
In such cases, you will get an error message like “Windows Photo Viewer Can’t Open This Picture”. Usually, there are several reasons why you might be unable to open a JPEG File on your Windows device. If you ever encounter such issues, don’t lose hope. Here, in this article, we will discuss various JPG repair methods that you can apply to address this issue.
Why Are JPEG Files Not Opening on Windows Devices?
It is important to find the exact cause for the issue which makes you unable to open JPEG file in order to identify exact JPG file repair methods. Here are some common reasons why you might be unable to open image files on your computer:
- File Association Issue: Check if your JPEG image is associated with a default program. If you try to open image files in a photo viewer app which is not JPEG compatible, then it will display an error message.
- Outdated Graphics Drivers: Keep your graphics drivers updated to avoid any issues related to it while opening images. It is recommended to download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s official website.
- Corrupted Files: There may be issues with your image file itself. To check if your image is corrupted, you can try opening other JPEG files on your photo viewer app.
- Malware or Antivirus Software: Scan your device for malware or viruses, as they sometimes interfere with file operations and make your files (including JPEG images) inaccessible.
Quick Methods to Fix ‘Unable to open JPEG file’ Error
Whatever is the cause for your not being able to open image files, there are always changes to fix the issue by applying several photo repair methods. In this part of the article, we’ll discuss methods to repair corrupted or damaged image files so you can repair and restore the original image and then open it in the photo viewer app. Let’s begin:
Method 01: Change File Format
Before you apply more complex methods to fix JPG files that you are not able to open on a Windows device, try changing their file format. Many times, changing the file format of your corrupted image file might help you to open it on your device. For this:
- Open your corrupted JPEG file in Windows’ in-built Paint tool.
- Now, click on the Save As option from the top menu bar and select Save As.
- Choose the file format in which you want to save your image and tap the Save
Method 02: Use Third-Party Photo Repair Software
If all the above methods fail to repair your corrupted images and you are still unable to open JPEG files on Windows device, then you should use third-party JPEG repair software. Stellar Repair for Photo is an all-in-one photo repair tool that you can use to repair your corrupt and damaged images in a few simple clicks. The software can help you to restore your image files corrupted due to any reason, including corrupt file headers, virus or malware attacks, etc.
The software can help you repair image files stored on multiple storage devices, such as SD cards, SSDs, Hard Drives, etc. It allows you to preview the repaired files, so you can select and save only the required images back to your device. Let’s explore how to fix Can’t load image files on Windows using the Stellar Repair for Photo tool:
Step 1: Install and launch the Stellar Repair for Photo software on your Windows device. Launch the software and click Add File to upload the image you need to repair.
Step 2: Tap the Repair button to start the repair process.
Step 3: Preview the repaired files, select the files that you want to save and click Save Repaired Files to save the selected files back to your device.
Method 03: Try a Different Photo Viewer
If even after changing the file format of your image, you still can’t open JPG files on your Windows device, it’s time to try an alternative photo viewer app. Windows OS is compatible with multiple software, like Paint and Paint 3D, which you can use to open your image files. You can even add some third-party photo viewer for this purpose. To open your image in different photo viewers, you need to:
- Firstly, right-click on the JPG image that you need to open.
- From the menu that appears, click on Open with
- Now, from the list of photo viewer apps available on your screen, select the app to view the photo. You can click on the Choose another app option to open your image in a third-party app.
Method 04: Reset or Repair the Default Photo Viewer
Instances may occur when the problem might be with your photo viewer app which makes you unable to open JPEG files. In such cases, you can try resetting or repairing the photo viewer to restore its functionality. All you have to do is:
- Press the Windows + I keys to open Settings.
- Navigate to the Apps option and select Apps & Features from the left pane.
- Now, locate and click on the Microsoft Photos app and then tap the Advanced options button
- Go to the Reset section and tap the Reset or Repair button as per your requirement. Go through on-screen instructions and wait till the process completes.
Once you are done with the above steps, restart your computer and open the photo file with which you were facing the problem while opening.
Method 05: Run SFC Scan
Sometimes, damaged system files prevent image files from opening in any photo viewer. If this is the cause, you need to run an SFC scan to detect and repair corrupted JPG files automatically. Here are the JPG repair steps that you can follow to repair images via SFC:
- Type CMD in the search box and then launch Command Prompt
- Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator
- Type the command “sfc/scannow” and press the Enter key. Wait till the SFC scans your computer and detects corrupted system files.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, encountering difficulties in opening JPEG files on Windows can be a frustrating experience, but the good news is that there are quick and effective solutions available. By exploring the five methods outlined in this guide, users can address the issue and regain seamless access to their JPEG files. Whether it’s updating software, checking file associations or utilizing third-party applications there are various avenues to explore.
With these methods at your disposal, you can navigate through any challenges and ensure a smoother experience when working with JPEG files on your Windows system.
