How to fix account error picture?

Hi Kaelyn,

Thank you for contacting Microsoft Community. I understand how frustrating it can be when you're seeing this “Setting the account picture failed, please try again” error using your Surface Pro. I’d be happy to help you resolve this.

Here are the possible reasons for this error.

1. Corrupted Cached Account Pictures Old or damaged image files stored in your profile can prevent new pictures from being applied.
2. Permission Issues Your user account may not have the correct permissions to update system profile images. 3. Sync Conflicts with Microsoft Account If your Microsoft account is not syncing properly, changes made online may not reflect on your device.
3. Corrupted User Profile A damaged user profile can block changes to account settings, including profile pictures.
4. Group Policy Restrictions (on work/school devices) If you're using a managed device, your organization may have disabled the ability to change account pictures.
5. File Format or Size Issues The image you're trying to use might be too large or in an unsupported format (e.g., not .jpg or .png).
6. Windows Update or System Bug Some updates or bugs in Windows 11 have been known to interfere with personalization settings.

Here are the options you can try to resolve this issue:

Option 1: Clear Cached Account Pictures

• Open File Explorer • Go to: C:\Users<YourUsername>\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\AccountPictures

Delete all files in this folder Restart your Surface and try setting the account picture again

Option 2: Use a Supported Image Format • Make sure the image is: • In .jpg or .png format • Square (e.g., 448x448 pixels)

• Under 1MB in size Option

Option 3: Change Picture via Microsoft Account Online •

 Visit https://account.microsoft.com •

Sign in and change your profile picture there •

Wait a few minutes for it to sync with your device

Option 4: Check Permissions on System Folders

•        Open File Explorer and go to: C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\User Account Pictures

·         Right-click the folder > Properties > Security. Make sure your user account has Read & Write permissions

·         Run System File Checker To fix any corrupted system files:

·         Open Command Prompt as Administrator Type: sfc /scannow

•        Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete

Option 5: Create a New Local User (Optional) If the issue persists: • Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users

 • Add a new local user

 • Try setting the account picture for that user

Hope this helps! If you need further assistance or have any questions, feel free to reply.

Warm regards,

Edward Schlobohm