How do you fix it appears that we dont support this file format?

Windows comes with all the tools and utilities you’ll need to perform day to day tasks including software to view and play your media files. However, considering the huge number of different file formats out there, there’s a chance that you might run into errors.

In this article, we’re taking a look at the “it looks like we don’t support this file format” error and giving you a few solutions to fix the problem. 

Also read: Green checkmarks on Windows explained


Update your PC 

The first thing you should do is to update your PC. Updating your PC will, in most cases, update your programs as well and fix any issues in the process.

Check out this detailed guide to know how to update your PC here

Change the default program

Changing the default image viewing program to Windows Photo Viewer can at times help fix the problem. Here’s how.

Step 1: Right-click the photo, select Open with and select Choose another app.

How do you fix it appears that we dont support this file format?

Step 2: Select Photos from the list and check the Use this program to open this file checkbox before clicking OK. 

How do you fix it appears that we dont support this file format?

You should be able to see all images just fine now. 


Install Codecs

Files in a non-Windows format might not work until their respective codecs aren’t installed. For example, RAW images taken on a DSLR will now show thumbnails until you install the required camera codec. The same goes for iPhone’s HEIC image format. 

Try installing the required codec from the Microsoft Store and see if that fixes your problem. 


Reset the program

Try resetting the program to check if it’s working. 

Step 1: Press Windows key + X and click on Apps and Features. 

How do you fix it appears that we dont support this file format?

Step 2: Find Photos in the list and click on Advanced Features. 

How do you fix it appears that we dont support this file format?

Step 3: Click on the Reset button to reset the program. 

How do you fix it appears that we dont support this file format?

Restart your PC and try again.


Reinstall the program

If resetting didn’t help, try removing the program and installing it again to see if that resolves your issue. 

Step 1: Press Windows key + X and click on Apps and Features. 

How do you fix it appears that we dont support this file format?

Step 2: Find Photos in the list and click Uninstall. 

How do you fix it appears that we dont support this file format?

Now reinstall the program from the Microsoft Store and check if that resolves the Windows Photo Viewer Not enough memory issue.

Also read: Windows does not have enough information to verify this certificate: 6 Fixes

Someone who writes/edits/shoots/hosts all things tech and when he’s not, streams himself racing virtual cars. You can reach out to Yadullah at [email protected], or follow him on Instagram or Twitter.

Why is it showing file format not supported?

This issue may occur for one or more of the following reasons: One or more Windows Media Player files are missing or damaged. You are trying to play a media file that has a file format that Windows Media Player does not support.

Why can't I open a PNG file?

You might encounter the PNG file not opening error if your photos app, i.e., Windows Photo Viewer is not updated. In that case, you must update it to the latest version. It helps you fix all the bugs and enhances the application performance as well. Check for the Windows updates.

How do I open unsupported photos on my laptop?

Use MS Paint on computer: You can also choose to transfer the pictures that are causing the unsupported file format error in your computer and convert the image format using MS Paint. MS Paint can convert images to Android supporting formats such as JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF, and BMP.

How do I use Windows Photo Viewer in Windows 11?

Right-Click an Image File to Change The Default Program Scroll through the list of applications until you see Windows Photo Viewer on the list. You'll probably need to click “More Apps” to get it to appear. Click Windows Photo Viewer once to select it, tick the box at the bottom that says “Always Use This App To Open .