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2021AnnieM
Known Participant
April 2, 2026
Question

Elements 2026 version. All of a sudden the Guided Mode won't load. I've uninstalled and reinstalled but that didn't work. I still have 2 years left on my license. Any suggestions?

  • April 2, 2026
  • 4 replies
  • 130 views

All of sudden my Elements 2026 won’t load the Guided Mode - it shows a constant wheel moving but nothing happens.  The Quick and Advanced modes work and my Organizer works.  I’ve uninstalled and reinstalled.  My license does not expire until 2028.  I have a PC, not a Mac.  Any suggestions?

    4 replies

    Precious_website16B8
    Participant
    April 25, 2026

    I have the same  problem, no resolution

    Participating Frequently
    April 25, 2026

    Uninstall/reinstall worked for me.  I did not have to delete the 26.0 folder that 99jon suggested in his response.

    99jon
    Legend
    April 2, 2026

    If re-setting the prefs makes no difference, I suggest a partial cleanup and re-installation.

     

    Uninstall PSE 2026

    Launch the Windows Run dialog (Windows key+R) and type %programdata% and hit return

    Navigate to: C:\ProgramData\Adobe\Photoshop Elements - see images below

    Delete the folder 26.0

    Restart your computer

    Start installation again from your Adobe account at the bottom of the products tab - click here:

     

    https://account.adobe.com/products

     

     

    Participating Frequently
    April 2, 2026

    Exact same problem here.    In my trouble-shooting, I’ve also tried launching the editor (PhotoshopElementsEditor.exe) directly, and even tried running it as an admin.  I’ve rebooted, and allow that wheel to spin for up to 20 minutes (before closing out).  As 2021AnnieM says, Quick and Advanced mode work just fine, but Guided mode just doesn’t load at all.  No error messages or any other indication.

    Also similar to 2021AnnieM, I’m on Windows, running 2026, plenty of time left on my license.  

    Unsure what else to do or try. 

    -Brian

    99jon
    Legend
    April 2, 2026

    Is your task bar set to “auto-hide”

    This has caused some problems in the past.

     

    You could try re-setting prefs.

    Launch the Editor and go to:

    Edit > Preferences > General

    Click the button: Reset Preferences on next launch

    Click OK and quit the Editor

    Re-launch the Editor 

     

    2021AnnieM
    Known Participant
    April 2, 2026

    The bottom task bar is showing: “Photo Bin, Tool Options, Undo, Redo etc” and I followed your instructions, but the Guided Mode still won’t load.  Does Adobe provide technical support via the telephone to customers whose licenses have not expired?

    99jon
    Legend
    April 3, 2026

    Brian & Annie, If re-setting the prefs makes no difference, I suggest a partial cleanup and re-installation.

     

    Uninstall PSE 2026

    Launch the Windows Run dialog (Windows key+R) and type %programdata% and hit return

    Navigate to: C:\ProgramData\Adobe\Photoshop Elements 

    Delete the folder 26.0

    Restart your computer

    Start installation again from your Adobe account at the bottom of the products tab