How can I open an OXPS file in Windows 10?

Question

I have in the past printed a number of pages using Microsoft XPS Document Writer so that I can save them in folders without physically printing. I used to be able to view them, but now I can't find a Windows application which will open them.

Why is Microsoft offering XPS Document Writer if there is no way of looking at the documents thus created?

Or am I missing something obvious????

Answer 1

oxps files can be opened using the xps viewer which should be in start - windows accessories.

if it not there

go to settings -> apps and features

click on " manage optional features"

click " add a feature"

scroll down to find xps viewer

click xps viewer then click the install button

Answer 2

OXPS (Open XML Paper Specification) was Microsoft's competitor to PDF. It never really gained traction among users, who preferred the PDF format. XPS is still around, but most people use PDF instead. With the April 2018 Update, Microsoft ended support for the XPS format and removed the XPS Viewer app.

If you like, you can reinstall the XPS Viewer. Just follow the instructions here:

How to access XPS Viewer in the Windows 10 April 2018 Update

However, you should know that most third-party PDF readers, if not all, will open XPS files. The same third-party PDF readers include a print-to-file PDF printer, so you can save files directly to the PDF format. Going forward I believe that's the wiser choice.

I use Foxit Reader, which opens XPS files and saves to the PDF format, but there are plenty of other equally capable (and equally free) PDF readers.

Answer 3

Click Start > Settings > Apps > Apps & features > Manage optional features > Add a feature

Click XPS Viewer and let it download, restart then launch it.

Answer 4

Click Start > Settings > Apps > Apps & features > Manage optional features > Add a feature

Click XPS Viewer and let it download, restart then launch it.

Many thanks. Both Andre and Martmcd provided the same straightforward advice which I followed, and can now see my previously saved documents via XPS viewer. 

I will remember to save as pdf's in future....!

Answer 5

Many thanks. Both Andre and Martmcd provided the same straightforward advice which I followed, and can now see my previously saved documents via XPS viewer. 

I will remember to save as pdf's in future....!