Alex Ruben
How to Fix the “These Files Have Properties That Can’t Be Read” Error in Video Editor
If you’re encountering the “These Files Have Properties That Can’t Be Read, So We Couldn’t Add Them” error while trying to use the Video Editor on Windows, you’re not alone. This frustrating issue often arises due to problems with the video file format, metadata, or even corrupt files. In this guide, we will walk you through several effective methods to resolve this error so you can successfully add your videos to the editor. By following these steps, you’ll learn how to troubleshoot and fix video file issues, ensuring smoother editing experiences.
Before we begin, ensure that you are working on a Windows 10 or Windows 11 system, as the methods described here are compatible with both operating systems. You do not need any additional software, but having access to the Microsoft Store will be necessary for some steps.
Step 1: Terminate and Repair the Photos App
Begin by accessing the Photos app settings to address potential issues with the app that may affect video file handling. Follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key and type “Photos” to search for the Photos app.
- Click on the app to open it, then navigate to App settings.
- Scroll down and click on Terminate to close any running instances of the app.
- Next, click on the Repair button and wait for the process to complete. Check if this resolves your issue.
- If the problem persists, return to the settings and select Reset, then confirm by clicking Reset again. Wait for the reset process to complete.
Step 2: Uninstall and Reinstall the Photos App
If repairing did not work, uninstalling and reinstalling the Photos app may help. Here’s how:
- Open the Photos app settings again and scroll down. Click on Uninstall.
- Confirm the uninstallation process by clicking Uninstall again.
- Once uninstalled, press the Windows key and type “Microsoft Store” to open the Store.
- In the Microsoft Store, search for “Photos” and locate the Microsoft Photos app.
- Click on the app and then select Get or Install to download and reinstall it.
Step 3: Convert Unsupported Video Files
Sometimes, the error occurs due to unsupported video file formats. Converting your files to a compatible format can solve this. You can use various online converters or dedicated software to change your video files to formats like MP4 or AVI, which are generally well-supported. Here’s how to convert files using online tools:
- Visit a reliable online video converter like Online Video Converter.
- Upload the video file that is causing the error.
- Select a compatible format (e.g., MP4) and start the conversion process.
- Once converted, download the new file and try adding it to the Video Editor again.
Step 4: Check for Corrupt Video Files
If your video file is corrupted, it won’t be readable by the Video Editor. Here are steps to check and potentially repair corrupt files:
- Try playing the video in another media player (like VLC) to see if it works.
- If it doesn’t play, use a video repair tool like Stellar Video Repair to attempt to fix the corruption.
- Follow the tool’s instructions to repair the file, then try adding the repaired video to the Video Editor.
Step 5: Adjust File Metadata
Incorrect or problematic metadata can also lead to this error. To fix this, you can use a metadata editor. Here’s how:
- Download a metadata editor like Mp3tag.
- Open your video file in the editor.
- Review and correct any suspicious metadata entries that might be causing problems.
- Save the changes and attempt to add the video to the Video Editor again.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
When dealing with video files, keep the following tips in mind:
- Always maintain backup copies of original files before performing any conversions or repairs.
- Ensure your Windows operating system and all apps are updated to the latest versions for compatibility.
- Consider using widely supported formats (MP4, AVI) for better functionality within the Video Editor.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “These Files Have Properties That Can’t Be Read” error in the Video Editor. Whether it’s repairing the Photos app, converting unsupported formats, or fixing corrupt files, you now have the tools to tackle this issue effectively. For further assistance or additional guides, feel free to explore more resources and tutorials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What file formats are supported by Video Editor?
The Video Editor typically supports formats like MP4, AVI, and WMV. It’s best to convert any unsupported files to these formats.
How can I check if my video file is corrupt?
Try playing the video in different media players. If it doesn’t play in any player, it might be corrupted.
Is there a way to repair video files without software?
Some online tools can help repair video files, but using dedicated software tends to yield better results.