How to add already installed apps on to your desktop on a Windows 10 (or 11)

Use one of these methods:

1. From Start:
   • Select Start and, in Windows 11, select All to see the full app list.
   • Find Photos.
   • Drag Photos onto the desktop to create a shortcut.
2. If drag-and-drop does not work:
   • Press Windows + R.
   • Type shell:appsfolder and press Enter.
   • Find Photos in the Apps folder.
   • Right-click it and select Create Shortcut.
   • When Windows says it can’t create the shortcut there, select Yes to place it on the desktop.
3. General desktop shortcut method:
   • Right-click an empty area of the desktop.
   • Select New > Shortcut.
   • Follow the prompts.

For Microsoft Store apps such as Photos, the Start drag-and-drop method or shell:appsfolder method is typically the one that works.

References:

• Customize the Desktop Icons in Windows | Microsoft Support
• How do I create a desktop shortcut for a WindowsApp? - Microsoft Q&A
• Why can't i drag an icon to the desktop on Windows 11 - Microsoft Q&A
• why i cant drag and drop apps onto m,y home screen - Microsoft Q&A