Google Photos commemorates a decade of saved memories with the unveiling of two significant updates
Google Photos, celebrating its 10-year anniversary, has rolled out a significant update for Android and iOS users, bringing a host of new features to the popular photo management app.
One of the most exciting additions is the introduction of an AI-powered photo editing feature. This new "edit by asking" functionality uses Google's Gemini AI models to allow users to edit photos simply by describing changes in natural language. For instance, users can ask the app to "remove cars from the background" or "make this photo brighter and more colorful". The AI can handle lighting adjustments, distraction removal, background changes, and even creative additions like sunglasses or party hats. It can also suggest fixes automatically and supports follow-up requests for fine-tuning edits.
This feature is initially available on Pixel 10 devices and is set to roll out to other Android and iOS phones in the near future.
Another notable update is the QR code sharing feature. Users can now generate QR codes for sharing albums more quickly, allowing them to share albums with people nearby. Those scanning the QR code can view the album or add pictures. This feature is available starting today.
The update also brings changes to the app's UI. The Collections tab, which replaced the old library, now provides a more intuitive and clean look at albums, documents, and more. The updated tab includes a change to its UI, with more important options now at the top, and buttons for the Locked Folder hidden away.
Furthermore, Google Photos has introduced a new "Updates" page, replacing the "Sharing" button. This page provides a full view of new shared albums, photos, and group conversation updates.
The app, which boasts approximately 1.5 billion users every month and stores over 9 trillion photos and videos, also allows users to hide certain people, places, or pets from the Memories section. This can be done by navigating to Photos > Settings > Preferences > Memories.
Lastly, Google Photos is reportedly preparing for a Material 3 Expressive upgrade, but details about this are yet to be confirmed.
[1] Google Blog: New features coming to Google Photos [2] 9to5Google: Google Photos gets a redesigned in-app editor with AI-powered suggestions [3] Android Police: Google Photos adds C2PA Content Credentials for improved transparency [4] The Verge: Google Photos gets a redesigned in-app editor with AI-powered suggestions
- This "edit by asking" functionality in Google Photos, leveraging Google's Gemini AI models, marks a convergence of lifestyle, technology, and general-news, as it revolutionizes the way users manage and edit their photos.
- The QR code sharing feature in Google Photos, enabling swift album sharing, serves as an intersection of lifestyle, technology, and general-news, as it aims to streamline how people share their photo collections with others.
