Proceed to Step 2 to update your operating system.
If your system is genuinely running an outdated version of Windows, you must update it. The standard Windows Update tool may sometimes get stuck, so utilizing official Microsoft utility tools is the most reliable path forward.
Starting with Photoshop CC 2018 (version 19.0), Adobe began leveraging modern Windows APIs that simply did not exist in older builds. Specifically:
To maintain performance and integrate features like GPU acceleration, modern type rendering, and advanced scratch disk management, Adobe limits installations to operating systems that support these developer frameworks.
Before attempting any fixes, confirm exactly which Windows build you are running. Proceed to Step 2 to update your operating system
Which (e.g., Windows 10, Windows 11) are you currently using?
: This was the last version to support older Windows 10 builds before the 1607 requirement became mandatory for newer updates. Adobe Photoshop Elements : Similarly, older versions of Photoshop Elements
If you are experiencing issues installing or running Photoshop, it is crucial to verify if you have the required version. Press the . Type winver and press Enter.
The message indicates a mandatory requirement for Adobe Photoshop's newer versions. , also known as the Windows 10 Anniversary Update , is a specific build of Windows 10 released by Microsoft in August 2016. It is not a random error code; it is a hard requirement set by Adobe to ensure stability. Starting with Photoshop CC 2018 (version 19
If the standard Windows Update isn't working, use the Windows Update Assistant to force the latest compatible version onto your machine.
Before taking any action, it's crucial to know exactly which version of Windows is running on your computer. This is a quick and easy process.
"Adobe Photoshop requires Windows 10 Anniversary update (version 1607) or later. Upgrade for free to a newer version to run Photoshop" Adobe Photoshop CC 2017
Modern iterations of creative apps like Photoshop place strict demands on your physical components. Upgrading your operating system won't help if your physical computer cannot keep up with the application's underlying engine. Which (e
The Anniversary Update wasn't just a security patch; it was a major functional update. Several new features directly benefited Photoshop users:
Another reason is performance. Windows 10 Anniversary Update includes several performance enhancements that can improve the overall user experience. By requiring users to have this update, Adobe can ensure that users can take full advantage of Photoshop's features and tools.
Released in August 2016, the Windows 10 Anniversary Update (codenamed "Redstone 1") introduced critical API enhancements. Adobe utilizes these underlying system layers for:
If the error persists on an updated machine, force Creative Cloud to re-evaluate your system hardware and software specifications. Open the Creative Cloud desktop app.
The safest and easiest method is to allow Windows to update itself: Go to . Click Check for updates . 3. Use the Windows Update Assistant