What Auto-Categorization Does

Microsoft is testing a new AI feature in the Windows 11 Photos app called Auto-Categorization. At rollout, it currently focuses on sorting a subset of image types: screenshots, receipts, identity documents, and notes. The goal is to automatically group related images into predefined folders to simplify browsing.

How It Works

The feature relies on a language-agnostic AI model capable of identifying document types regardless of the language in the image. By analyzing visual cues-handwritten notes, printed receipts, scanned IDs, or handwritten captions-the model places photos into categories such as Screenshots, Receipts, Identity Documents, and Notes.

Users can then browse these categories from the left-hand navigation in Photos or by using the app's search to locate specific items quickly. If something ends up misclassified, you can manually adjust the category or provide feedback to help improve the model's accuracy over time.

User Experience and Availability

The feature is being rolled out to Copilot+ PCs enrolled in Windows Insider channels with Photos version 2025.11090.25001.0 or newer. This phased release allows Microsoft to gather real-world feedback and refine the experience before broader availability.

Privacy and Data Considerations

As with many AI-powered features, questions arise about data handling. Some users wonder whether photos and metadata are processed locally on the device or sent to Microsoft servers for on-cloud inference. At the time of reporting, the company has not publicly confirmed the exact data handling approach for this feature. Users concerned about privacy should review Photos' privacy settings, inspect the Windows Insider program terms, and consider disabling Auto-Categorization if needed.

Practically, you can monitor permissions at the app level, control what Microsoft can access, and stay mindful of any network activity related to AI services in your Windows 11 environment.

Related AI Enhancements in Microsoft Photos and Windows 11

Auto-Categorization isn't the only AI upgrade in the Photos app. Microsoft has rolled out several AI-powered enhancements in recent months, including:

• Super resolution for Copilot+ PCs to enlarge images up to eight times their original size, leveraging AI upscaling.
• A Copilot button in the Photos Viewer offering editing tips, framing suggestions, and guided enhancements.
• Relight, a feature that provides dynamic lighting adjustments through natural language and AI-assisted controls.

Additionally, Microsoft is exploring broader Copilot integrations across Windows 11, File Explorer, Office apps for Microsoft 365, and even gaming features like Gaming Copilot, all aimed at delivering AI-powered productivity across the platform.

Practical Tips for Getting the Most from Auto-Categorization

• Enable Auto-Categorization in the Photos app on your Copilot+ Windows 11 device with the supported build.
• Review categorized folders regularly to catch misclassifications and provide feedback to improve accuracy.
• Combine Auto-Categorization with robust search: use keywords like "receipts" or "identity documents" to locate items instantly.
• Balance convenience with privacy: adjust app permissions and privacy settings to align with your comfort level.

Is It Worth It?

For heavy photo collections-think snapshots from trips, receipts for expenses, or scanned documents-the Auto-Categorization feature can significantly reduce time spent manual sorting. It enhances recall by grouping images by context, making it easier to assemble a report, compile a travel album, or locate a specific receipt years later. However, as with any AI-driven tool, it's important to monitor its performance, correct misclassifications, and stay vigilant about privacy implications.

Conclusion: What to Do Next

If you're on a Windows 11 machine with Copilot+ capabilities, consider enabling Auto-Categorization to experience the convenience of AI-assisted photo organization. Keep an eye on privacy settings, participate in feedback, and take advantage of additional AI features as they roll out to boost your digital productivity. The ongoing expansion of AI in Windows 11 aims to make everyday tasks faster, more accurate, and less cluttered-without sacrificing control over your data.