File extension problem when processing multiple files in Elements 2026

[MikeB49]

In Elements 2026, using Process multiple files from the File menu and specifying rename files and convert files to jpg, I get the error message "You must specify an extension for the output file(s).

The only way to get round this is to specify Extension in the 2nd box of the Rename section but if I do that then the other options in the 2nd box can't be used. So, for example, I can't rename my output files to "MyNewName + 1 digit serial number".

I also have Elements 2020 and there isn't this issue because the output file extension is derived from the "Convert Files to" field.

[Greg_S. · Accepted solution]

I have confirmed your observation.  I shall report it as a bug to Adobe.

[C30578812llri]

Happening here. Unchecked the Windows compatibility box (leaving the default Mac and also Unix checked) and it worked. Dislike the hypens between words needed to name for Unix so re-opened all the PSD's, left Windows and Unix unchecked; also worked. Thanks.

[MikeB49]

The Windows compatibility box on my Windows laptop can't be unchecked, so I guess it's a case of waiting for a fix from Adobe.

[Jeff Arola]

As far as i can tell this issue is only on the Windows side with PSE 26.

Tested several Mac installs of PSE 26 and no such error occurs.

[Medha_Sharma]

Hi @MikeB49,

We're investigating this issue.

Regards,

Medha

[CHughes612]

Figured out a work around.  In the processing multiple window, I selected Document Name then the second drop down I selected just the word extension and it worked. It is ad an additional number to the file name but all processed to jpg successfully. 

[MikeB49]

Yes, that works, but it's just the same result as if you untick the Rename Files option.

[MikeB49]

I have updated Elements 26 to 26.1 and the problem appears to have been fixed. Interestingly, the upgrade wasn't straightforward! After accepting the update prompt displayed within Elements the program wouldn't start up. I see there are a couple of reports of this in this forum. I decided to uninstall Elements and Organiser and re-install from the Adobe website. Everthing now appears OK.

[Medha_Sharma · Accepted solution]

Hi everyone,

This issue has been resolved in the latest update of Adobe Photoshop Elements 2026. We appreciate your patience during this time.

Regards,

Medha