The error message "Adobe Photoshop requires Windows 10 Anniversary Update version 1607 or later" typically appears when you try to install or run a modern version of Photoshop on an outdated build of Windows 10 . Version 1607 (Anniversary Update) was released in 2016 and is the absolute minimum requirement for versions like Photoshop CC 2018. 🛠️ Step 1: Check Your Current Version
If you are already on a modern version of Windows 10/11 but still see the version 1607 error, follow these steps:
If your built-in Windows Update is stuck, failing, or lagging behind, you can force the update directly via Microsoft's official deployment tools.
This often points to a registry error or a misconfiguration in your Windows Update settings that is confusing the Adobe update checker. The error message "Adobe Photoshop requires Windows 10
If you have verified you are on version 1607 or later but the error persists: Sometimes updates are pending.
, and press Enter. If your version is lower than 1607 (e.g., 1507 or 1511), Photoshop will not launch. Use Windows Update Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update Check for updates Run the Update Assistant : If standard updates fail, download the Windows 10 Update Assistant from the official Microsoft website by clicking Update now Free Up Disk Space
If you are on hardware that cannot support newer Windows updates, or if you are restricted by corporate policy, you have two alternative paths. This often points to a registry error or
Click on the button at the top of the page to download the Windows 10 Update Assistant . Run the downloaded .exe file.
: Click your profile icon in the top right corner of the Creative Cloud app, sign out, restart your computer, and sign back in.
If you are attempting to install or run a recent version of Adobe Photoshop and encountering the error message, you are not alone. This is a common hurdle, particularly for users with older operating system builds or stricter corporate IT policies. If your version is lower than 1607 (e
Adobe updated its system requirements to leverage modern Windows features and security protocols. If your system is running an older build (e.g., version 1507 or 1511), Photoshop will refuse to start until the OS is updated.
Use the official links provided in Part 2 to download the Windows 10 Anniversary Update (Version 1607). Install it, run Windows Update immediately to get to a modern secure version (like 22H2), and then install Photoshop without a single error.