If you've followed any Google announcements recently or used its apps over the past couple of years, you've probably noticed one thing, everything is now about AI. From Gmail and Google Drive to Docs and even Messages, Gemini has made its way into almost every Google app, whether you asked for it or not.

For me, AI still feels like a bit of a buzzword. There are only a handful of use cases on my phone that I actually find useful. If you're in the same boat and want to cut down on Google AI features across your apps, this guide will walk you through how to do exactly that.

What you should know before disabling Google AI on your phone

As important as it sounds, there is unfortunately no single switch to disable AI across your Android phone. That's partly because different manufacturers have implemented AI features in their own way, but I still feel there should at least be a universal toggle to turn off Gemini across apps.

The good news is that you can still disable Gemini across multiple Google apps, along with some Pixel-specific AI features, if you know where to look in the settings. And if you change your mind later, you can always turn these features back on just as easily.

Below, I'll walk you through how to disable Google AI features across apps like Messages, Gmail, Google Photos, and even some Pixel-exclusive tools. I've used the Pixel 10 Pro for this, but the steps should be fairly similar on most Android phones.

Google Messages

If you've opened the Messages app on your Android phone and found the Gemini button sitting above the plus icon a bit annoying, you can easily turn it off. Personally, I also think it's better to keep Gemini out of the same space where you handle your personal conversations.

1. Open the Google Messages app.

2. Tap the Profile icon on the top right.

3. Select Messages settings.

4. Scroll down and tap Gemini in Messages.

5. Disable the toggle for Show Gemini button.

Gmail

Gemini has also slowly made its way into Gmail, whether it's showing updates for your online orders, tracking flights, suggesting ways to polish your emails, or more recently introducing an AI-powered inbox. Similar to Google Messages, you'll need to go into Gmail's settings to turn these features off.

1. Open the Gmail app on your phone.

2. Tap the hamburger menu in the top left and go to Settings.

3. In Settings, select your email account and then find Google Workspace smart features.

4. Open it and disable both Smart features in Google Workspace and Smart features in other Google products.

This will disable Gemini and AI features not just in Gmail, but across Workspace apps like Google Chat, Drive, and Meet. If you disable the second toggle as well, Gemini will also be removed from services like Google Wallet and some smart features in Google Maps

Google Photos

With the past couple of updates, Google has also replaced the normal search in Google Photos with Gemini-powered feature called Ask Photos. Other than that, there are also other AI features in Google Photos such as remixes, photo to video, memories, and much more. If you don't want Google's AI creeping into your personal photos, here is how you can disable:

1. Open the Google Photos app.

2. Tap the Profile icon from the top right and then select Photos settings.

3. Tap Preferences and then Gemini features in Photos. Disable the Gemini features that you don't need. If you don't need any of them, you can just disable the topmost Use Gemini in Photos toggle.

Phone app

If you own a Google Pixel smartphone, chances are Google has added a bunch of AI features into core apps, including the Phone app. While some of these features, like Call Screen and Hold for Me, can be useful, not everyone wants them enabled all the time. If you'd rather keep things simple, you can turn them off.

1. Head over to the Phone app on your phone.

2. Tap the hamburger menu in the top left corner and go to Settings.

3. Under the Call Assist section, you'll see all the AI-powered features. Tap on any feature and disable the toggle for it.

Pixel Screenshots

If you own a Google Pixel 9 or Pixel 10 series phone, your device comes with the Pixel Screenshots app that analyzes every screenshot you take to give you contextual info later. While this can be useful in some cases, like saving details or pulling info from an image, there's also a chance you don't want all your screenshots being analyzed:

1. Open the Pixel Screenshots app on your phone.

2. Tap the gear icon in the top right corner.

3. Disable the toggle for Search your screenshots with on-device AI.

Alternatively, you can go into the app info page and disable the Pixel Screenshots app entirely if you don't plan on using it.

These are some of the ways you can get rid of Google AI across apps on your phone. If you don't want to use Gemini at all, you can simply disable the app itself, which breaks its integrations across other apps and essentially turns off AI features on your device.

I've felt for a while that while some AI features are genuinely useful, most of them still have a pretty low hit rate and aren't as practical as companies make them sound. Personally, I prefer keeping things simple, and this is how I go about it.

What you need to know

• Google Photos is evolving from a simple gallery into a personal stylist and daily content hub on Motorola’s new Razr devices.
• The new “Wardrobe” feature turns your photo library into a digital closet, automatically identifying and organizing clothes and accessories.
• Motorola is also the first to embed Memories into its new “Daily Drops” feed, which combines news, weather, calendar info, and photo memories into a twice-daily personalized dashboard.

Motorola and Google want to change the way you use your photo gallery. Soon, Google Photos will work more like a personal stylist and a daily content hub. With the new Razr lineup, Motorola is adding two features that take Photos beyond its usual job.

Later this summer, a new feature called Wardrobe will arrive on select Android devices. It's intended to create a digital closet using your own photos, so you won’t have to scroll through years of vacation pictures to find that jacket you wore once. Google Photos will find every clothing item and accessory it sees, cut them out neatly, and display them like a shopping catalog, but everything is already yours.

If you’re packing for a trip or rushing to get ready for dinner, Wardrobe lets you mix and match outfits, try on different looks, and save your favorites right in Photos. You can also share them with friends.

Memories on your home screen

Motorola is fully embracing this idea. The company has used Photos as its default gallery app for years, and now it’s the first mobile partner to add Google Photos Memories directly into its content feed.

Called Daily Drops, this feed is a personalized hub that updates twice a day with headlines, calendar summaries, weather, and now, your best moments from Memories.

When you wake up and swipe over, you might see that beach sunset from three months ago next to your morning coffee and today’s schedule.

There are a few requirements to keep in mind. You must be at least 16 years old and have face grouping turned on to use Wardrobe. If you want Daily Drops to show your schedule, you’ll need to give access to Google Calendar. Of course, Google Photos access is required. The feature will begin arriving on Android devices in June 2026, starting in certain regions.

Motorola says Daily Drops is already rolling out on select Motorola phones in Europe, North America, Latin America, and Asia. The new Razr family will get it soon after launch.

Android Central's Take

Letting Google automatically organize every flannel and pair of sneakers from my camera roll does sound helpful. For anyone who is indecisive or tends to over-pack, this could actually save some time. But it feels a bit odd to need a search engine to remind you what you already own. If your closet is so messy that only machine learning can sort it out, maybe the real answer is to spend twenty minutes folding clothes. Motorola and Google say this is about self-expression and individuality, but honestly, giving photos of every shirt you’ve worn to an algorithm so it can suggest outfits is a more stylish way to give more data.

What you need to know

• Google Photos has added new touch-up tools focused on subtle edits instead of heavy filters.
• Tools like Heal, Smooth, Under eyes, and Teeth keep your face looking natural, just slightly refined.
• You’ll need a device running Android 9.0 or higher with at least 4GB of RAM to get in on the action.

Google has introduced new touch-up tools in Google Photos for Android, and they focus on subtle changes rather than turning your face into something unrecognizable with heavy filters. You can smooth out a blemish, brighten tired eyes, or reduce an unflattering shadow under your chin.

Many portrait editing tools make changes that are too extreme, leaving you looking unnatural. Google’s new set of tools — Heal, Smooth, Under eyes, Irises, Teeth, Eyebrows, and Lips — aims to avoid that. Just tap a face in your photo, choose a tool, and use the slider to make gentle adjustments so you still look like yourself, just a bit refreshed.

Google explains that these edits are designed to enhance your appearance rather than completely change it. In other words, the tools are meant to improve what’s already in the photo, not make dramatic changes.

How the technology works

This feature is built on Google’s ongoing investment in AI-powered photo editing. If you have tried Photos' AI editing tools like Magic Eraser or Portrait Light, you probably know by now that Google uses machine learning to handle most of this type of work.

Now, the tech giant is using this approach for faces by analyzing lighting, texture, and tone, then suggesting natural-looking adjustments. You do not need to manually select or edit areas; the app does it automatically.

Importantly, these tools are built right into the existing editor. This means you do not need a separate app or any extra steps.

Google’s official announcement says the feature is rolling out gradually around the world. You’ll need an Android device running Android 9.0 or higher with at least 4GB of RAM to access the tools.

The feature is expected to arrive on Android devices first, with wider availability coming later.

Android Central's Take

Being able to quickly clean up a photo without dealing with lots of sliders is helpful, especially when you just want a good picture for social media. This makes it easier to look more polished in photos, which many will appreciate. Still, it is another example of AI deciding how your face should appear, and most of us just tap 'apply' without much thought. While it's convenient, it also moves us further into a space where 'natural' photos are not really natural anymore — they are just more processed versions of reality.

What you need to know

• Google Photos finally adds video playback speed control.
• You can now watch videos from 0.5x to 2x directly inside the app.
• It's rolling out now on Android, but availability is gradual and iOS is still waiting.

Google Photos has been the main gallery app for many people for years, but it always missed one simple feature: you couldn’t change video playback speed. If you wanted to quickly get through a long recital or slow down a sports highlight, you were stuck at normal speed. That’s finally changing.

Google is adding a video playback speed control to Google Photos on Android. Now you can speed up or slow down videos right in the app.

There are several speed options, usually from 0.5x for slower playback up to 2x for faster viewing, according to Google Photos' support page.

The new speed control appears when you play a video, so you can use it quickly without searching through menus.

Why this took so long

Google Photos has grown beyond just being a gallery app. Over time, it’s become a full media hub with editing tools, AI features, and cloud syncing.

However, video playback features have always lagged behind. Apps like YouTube, which is also owned by Google, have offered playback speed controls for years, but Google Photos focused more on storage and simple editing.

As more people use Google Photos to store long videos like events, vlogs, or lectures, not having speed control started to feel outdated.

This feature is especially helpful if you have a large video library, which is common for Google Photos users.

The feature is rolling out to Android users now, but like most Google updates, it’s arriving gradually. If you don’t see it yet, you’re not the only one.

Right now, this update is only for Android. There’s no set timeline for iOS yet, but it will probably show up there eventually.

What you need to know

• Custom sticker creation is now live in Google Photos on Android, months after debuting on iPhone.
• When you open a compatible photo, the AI highlights the main subject with a soft shimmer.
• Tap the shimmer and Photos lifts the subject from the background.

Over the years, Google has stacked in features that turn Photos into a creative hub, like Magic Eraser and Photo Unblur for quick edits, Recap reels that highlight your best moments, and smart search to find people and places easily. Now, the latest Android update brings custom sticker creation, which iPhone users have had for a few months now.

You can now make stickers from your own photos right in Google Photos on Android, as per 9to5Google. The feature shows up automatically in the app. When you open a photo that works, the AI finds the main subject and adds a soft shimmer around it. This lets you know the image is ready to turn into a sticker.

When you see the shimmer, just tap the subject to start. The AI will separate the object from the background. Most of the time, the cutout looks clean, even with tough edges like fur or messy hair.

Ready for messaging apps

Next, you’ll see a preview of your sticker and a "Copy sticker" button. This feels much smoother than the old way of cropping by hand. Since the stickers are saved as PNGs with transparent backgrounds, you can use them in your favorite messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, Telegram, or Google Messages without any white borders. Just open Gboard, tap the sticker icon, and your custom stickers are ready to use.

While the AI is good, it’s not perfect. Right now, you can’t brush in or erase parts if the AI misses something, so you have to go with its first try. If a photo is too crowded or the lighting is flat, the shimmer won’t show up as the AI isn't confident enough to isolate the subject.

Android Central's Take

I used to think of Google Photos mainly as a backup tool, not really as an editor. But this update changes that for me. Turning any photo into a sticker in seconds, without switching between apps, makes everything easier and encourages creativity.

This is the kind of AI feature that feels truly useful. Generative AI that makes images from nothing is interesting, but it can feel a bit distant. With this, my own photos become something I can use in daily chats. It makes my gallery more lively and expressive, and honestly, it makes using Android feel more personal and fun.

Google Pixel phones are loaded with AI-powered camera and photo editing tools, and there are even more available to all Google Photos users. There are flashy options like Magic Editor or Auto Best Take, but there are plenty more that aren't front and center in the Google Photos app. One such feature is Auto Frame, an advanced cropping tool that launched with the Google Pixel 9 series and made its way to the Pixel 9a, too.

Smartphone cameras employ quite a few post-processing tricks to improve quality, but there's still more to capturing a good photo than having the right hardware or algorithm. Real-world conditions, including lighting and framing, can have a big impact. Auto Frame automatically crops and resizes your images with more desirable framing, so photo composition is one less thing for you to worry about.

Here's how to use it on supported Pixel phones, including the entire Pixel 9 series and Pixel 10 series.

What is Auto Frame, and what does it do?

Photo composition is all about intentionally placing certain parts of the image in specific places to achieve a desired look. Typically, you want the subject of your photo in the center and in focus. Auto Frame on Google Pixel phones uses AI to identify the subject or focus of a photo and crop the image accordingly. Depending on the image, this could involve centering the subject or adjusting the aspect ratio of the photo.

In some cases, Auto Frame will simply zoom in on an image or trim the edges to find the right framing. In others, the tool can employ generative AI to expand the image, filling in the space around the actual photo. This creates the appearance of a wider shot, allowing Auto Frame to get more creative with the image's framing.

Auto Frame suggests multiple AI-adjusted images, so you can pick the one you prefer. If you don't want the expanded images created with generative AI, it's perfectly fine to skip them. There's even a refresh option that runs Auto Frame again to suggest more edits, helping you find the best one.

How to use Auto Frame on a Pixel 9 or later

Auto Frame is a somewhat hidden tool in the Google Photos app. It's not a high-level editing tool like Magic Eraser or Photo Unblur. Instead, this is a little-known option that you won't see until you open the cropping tool in Google Photos. Here's how to find (and use) Auto Frame on your supported Pixel phone:

1. Launch the Google Photos app and pick a photo.

2. Press the Edit button in the toolbar and tap Tools.

3. In the Actions tab, pick the Crop tool.

4. Tap Auto frame.

5. Auto Frame will then generate a handful of options. Pick your favorite, or press the refresh button to load new options.

6. Press the checkmark when you've picked a selection.

7. Hit Save as copy to save the edited photo to your camera roll.

Since Auto Frame saves the edited photo as a copy, you'll always have the original to fall back on. You can use Auto Frame to edit and crop your original image as many times as you'd like, turning one photo into a handful of photos, all with their own look and feel.

Auto Frame can inspire your next shot

Even if you're opposed to using generative AI in photography, Auto Frame can still be a useful learning tool. Take the screenshots above, for example — Auto Frame took a basic wide shot of a harbor and turned it into completely different photos with unique sizes and subjects. In one photo, the dock and ships became the focus. In another, the once-landscape photo became a portrait one that contrasts the land, water, and sky.

In the last screenshot, Auto Frame used the rule of thirds to arrange the elements in the photo in a visually pleasing way. The land, water, and sky each roughly take up a third of the image, with the main dock nearly centered. It's the perfect example of quality photo composition in action. You can pick up on these stylistic choices and apply them to future photos, helping you become a better mobile photographer overall.

Why Auto Frame is the most useful of Google's photo tools

To me, Auto Frame separates itself as one of the more useful Pixel photography tools because you don't have to use it in the moment. It's always available in the Google Photos app, and you can use it to edit photos that are years old. Rather than fiddling with photo and camera settings in a pinch, you can snap a quick photo and clean it up later using Auto Frame. That makes this tool incredibly appealing for any budding photographer who's in a rush.

Best of all, it doesn't go overboard with generative AI. The feature might fill the gaps here and there, but the main goal of Auto Frame is to crop and resize photos to make them look better. It's a tool that even AI skeptics should be able to appreciate.

Auto Frame is available on the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 series, including the A-series model, and you can start using it now.

Google Photos offers a robust selection of image editing tools, and many of them are free and cross-platform. However, with the ever-accumulating assortment of editing features, it can be hard to keep track of them all. Recent updates to Google Photos completely overhauled the image editor, and longtime features like Magic Eraser or Magic Editor are in new places. If you're overwhelmed by the options available in Google Photos, there's a new feature you need to try.

It's called Ask Photos, and it's designed to help you command the tools found within Google Photos. Instead of seeking out the exact slider or button needed to carry out your edit, Ask Photos lets you write a natural-language prompt. Just like you can use conversational requests to control AI chatbots like Gemini, you can now ask Google Photos to edit your photos in a similar way. It works for classic editing features and generative editing tools powered by AI.

I use it for everything from cropping to AI object removal, and here's how you can too.

Everything you can do with Ask Photos

Ask Photos brings every Google Photos editing tool to the surface with simple prompts anyone can write. In the new Photos editor, there's a Help me edit text field that can accept conversational requests. You can type commands like "fix the lighting" or "center the person in the image," and Google Photos will use the appropriate tools to make the adjustments. That could be the cropping tool, color adjustment sliders, or Magic Eraser, depending on the situation.

The Help me edit chat box should appear for personal Google accounts in the U.S., but you'll need to opt-into the Ask Photos experience the first time you use it. The feature requires using face match and location estimation. When you turn on Ask Photos, the app will ask for your permission to let Photos "gain a deep understanding of your life, determine your location, and use your queries to improve."

You'll have to decide whether letting Google process your information is worth the convenience of Ask Photos. Google isn't processing your photos or videos to train its AI models, but it will use the prompts for training, so don't write an Ask Photos request with personal information.

How to use Ask Photos in Google Photos

You can find the Ask Photos chat box in the Google Photos editor. The first time you use Ask Photos to edit a photo, you'll need to accept the terms and conditions, allowing Google to process certain data stored in your images. After tapping through the prompts and granting access, you can make changes to shots with Ask Photos by following these steps:

1. Open the Google Photos app and select a photo to edit.

2. Tap the Edit button on the photo you've selected.

3. Press the Help me edit text field.

4. Tap one of the Ask Photos suggestions or type your own prompt and press the Send button.

5. Wait for the photo to process. When finished, hit Save as copy to save the edited photo or keep using Ask Photos by typing another prompt.

Since Ask Photos can utilize the full arsenal of Google Photos editing tools, you can make changes to your photos without knowing how to use every individual option. Just describe what you want to do, and Ask Photos will do it for you.

Ask Photos records every change you make for transparency

Ask Photos uses C2PA Content Credentials for transparency, and this helps make clear which photos are original and which have been edited. The Google Pixel 10 series takes this one step further, recording C2PA Content Credentials within the Pixel Camera app at the time a photo is captured. The Google Photos app further adds metadata for images edited without AI and those edited with AI. Additionally, photos altered with Reimagine have SynthID digital watermarks.

In other words, you can safely edit your images with Ask Photos without misleading anyone. More importantly, certain modifications that don't use AI — like cropping — won't mistakenly add an AI label to your photos. Google knows the difference between AI and non-AI editing tools, and records it in the C2PA Content Credentials.

You can view the Content Credentials for any photo in your Google Photos library by going to the Details section. You'll only see the credentials if a photo was captured on a supported device or edited with Google Photos.

When I use Ask Photos to edit my pictures

Any time I need to use a complex editing feature in Google Photos, I use Ask Photos instead. It usually saves me taps in the Photos editor, and by extension, it saves me time. Rather than use a handful of taps to crop an image or adjust the colors, I can type out a simple prompt in the Ask Photos text field. From there, Google Photos takes the reins, completing the edits automatically.

It's a neat way to explore all the things Google Photos can do to remix your pictures. By using natural language prompts, you can experience photo editing tools you never would've encountered otherwise.

What you need to know

• Google Photos announced a new feature headed for its Create tab, called "Me Meme."
• Users can upload a clear selfie of themselves and choose from a pre-made template or add a reference to generate a meme.
• Google says this experimental feature is rolling out for U.S. Photos users.

"Creating" in Google Photos gets a little funnier to end the week, as the company highlights a new feature for users to get some laughs.

The Create tab in Google Photos is rolling out a feature called "Me Meme," which leverages the company's generative AI. In its announcement, Google states that this feature is on its way to U.S. users, so keep your eyes peeled. It adds that Me Meme leverages its Gen AI software to turn your photos into "funny, personalized images." What Me Meme generates will be ready for sharing with others.

Headed for Create, Me Meme will, as previously stated, require a photo from you. Additionally, Google says that the feature will provide templates for users to choose from.

Google states that Me Meme will provide an assortment of premade templates for users; however, you can upload your own and use that as a base. After the feature arrives, users can head into Photos > Create > Me Meme. From there, select a template and upload a photo (an image of you is preferred). The image of yourself that you upload should be a rather clean selfie, one where your face is clearly visible for Google's Gen AI to operate.

Once the meme is done generating, users can share or save the image. Google Photos will have a "Regenerate" button available, just in case what it produced isn't up to par. There's also the addition of a "compare" button, which is said to "compare the uploaded photo to the generated meme." Google informs users that Me Meme is experimental and its generated products could be a little wonky.

Create some funnies

The Create tab made its grand debut in the Photos app last summer, making a splash for users and Google's AI features. Everything from photo-to-video and Remix to collage and more can be found within this tab in the app. Of course, this photo-to-video tool directly echoes what Google dropped for the Gemini app. Users are able to upload a photo and let Veo 3's video generation capabilities take over for a short eight-second clip.

When the feature hit Google Photos, users were noticeably missing Google's next-gen Veo 3 tech. That was rectified in an update the following month, in September. Veo 3 provides enhanced video quality with its smarter generative software.

What you need to know

• Samsung is adding Google Photos support to its smart TVs starting in 2026 via a software update.
• The rollout begins with Memories, letting users view people- and location-based moments on the TV.
• Full Google Photos is not arriving yet, instead a curated Photos experience will be woven into TV software.

Ahead of CES 2026, where Samsung is expected to showcase its new lineup of smart TVs, the company has announced that it is bringing Google Photos support to Samsung TVs.

Samsung uses its own operating system called One UI Tizen instead of Android to run apps and services on its TVs. While the experience has generally been smooth and feature-rich, one notable omission has been Google Photos support (which is also missing on Google TV). That is finally about to change.

Samsung has announced that it will soon bring Google Photos to Samsung TVs, allowing users to enjoy their most meaningful moments on a larger, more immersive screen. However, the company is not bringing the full Google Photos app just yet. Instead, it will introduce a curated way to explore photos on TV.

What Google Photos on Samsung TVs will actually offer

The first Google Photos feature coming to Samsung TVs is Memories. Similar to how the Google Photos app presents Memories on Android smartphones, users will be able to view photos and videos based on people, locations, and meaningful moments on the TV. This feature will roll out beginning in March 2026.

Later in 2026, Samsung plans to add more Google Photos capabilities, including Create with AI, which lets you use Nano Banana to generate themed templates, and Remix to transform image styles, as well as Photo to Video that animates still moments into short clips. Users will also eventually be able to view their photos as topic-based slideshows.

In simple terms, instead of offering full library access on TV, Samsung intends Google Photos to be woven into the smart TV experience. Samsung says users will begin seeing Photos integrated naturally throughout the day via Daily+ and Daily Board once they are signed into their Google account.

Samsung says Google Photos will start arriving on select Samsung TV models starting in 2026 via a software update later in the year.

What you need to know

• Google Photos now shows faces directly in the Search tab, making it faster to find photos of people and pets.
• The update removes extra steps by skipping Collections and People & pets when searching for specific faces.
• Face Groups must be enabled for the feature to work.

Google is rolling out a new update for the Photos app on Android and iOS that makes it easier to find photos of important people in your life much faster.

Until now, searching for photos of a specific person in Google Photos required heading to the Collections tab, then People & pets, and tapping the person whose photos you wanted to view. While this workflow has worked, it can be time-consuming, especially if your library includes photos of many people. The new update aims to simplify this process.

Google says that when the Face Groups feature is enabled, you will now see a prominently displayed row of faces in the Search tab, including within the new Ask Photos search. Tapping a person's face from Search will instantly take you to all photos of that person or pet.

Google Photos finally makes people search less annoying

By default, the feature surfaces faces that appear most frequently in your library. If you want to see photos of other people, you can tap the three-dot menu, which takes you to the People & pets page where all recognized faces are listed.

It is worth noting that this feature only works when Face Groups is enabled in Google Photos. Face Groups automatically clusters photos of the same individual into a single, accessible collection, making it easier to find all images where they appear. You can enable this by going to Settings > Privacy and turning on the Face Groups toggle.

The feature has already started rolling out. I was able to see it working on my Google Pixel 10 Pro running version 7.57.843 of the Photos app. If you do not see it yet, make sure the Photos app is updated via the Google Play Store.

What you need to know

• Google Photos introduces enhanced video editing tools for personalized highlight reels.
• New features include customizable templates, music, and stylish text overlays for seamless editing.
• Editing tools rollout begins on Dec.9, making video creation easier for users.

With all those platforms offering year-end recaps to revisit your best memories and peek into 2025, Google Photos is jumping in! Today, they've announced a bunch of video editing tools so you can easily mash up your favorite pictures and clips, add some text, and throw in some cool music to create a reel that you can seamlessly share on different social media platforms.

Google is making it easier for users to create a reel featuring multiple video clips and photos in Google Photos by hitting the "Create" tab and selecting “highlight video,” picking the content you want included, and Google Photos will create a single video for you.

But it doesn't just end there. Now, you don't have to jump through several hoops, or rather editing apps, to fine-tune the highlight video. From using ready-made templates, a redesigned video editor, to adding music and custom text, the tech giant is bringing five new features to make these reels more personal.

Google Photos will show you different templates to pick from, giving you a creative push for your highlight reel if you don't know where to begin. The platform has significantly updated its editor to be more user-friendly and intuitive, giving it a major glow-up. The enhanced editor supports multi-clip editing and storytelling, and also includes an "adaptive canvas" to simplify the editing process, like switching around clips within the video or adjusting the length of the video clip, all in one place.

Additionally, users will be able to edit and customize each video clip within the reel by adding music or custom text to it as well.

Speaking of having it all in one place, users will also be able to add audio from the Photos’ music library and pick the perfect track that adds "emotion or brings out the right vibe to your highlight video on Android and iOS."

Google Photos is adding text editing features, basically ditching the need to switch to other applications like Instagram or TikTok. Users on Android can now utilize "stylish text overlays" for their highlight videos, with customizable options for fonts, colors, and backgrounds to make their message prominent.

Google says these editing tools will begin rolling out today (Dec.9), so you can give them a go within the Photos app.

What you need to know

• Google Play Books celebrates its 15th birthday in December, which kickstarts a massive points party for users.
• Readers from Dec 5-7 can earn 15x the Play Points on book purchases.
• Earlier this year, Google Photos celebrated its 10th birthday, which brought AI editing suggestions and QR codes for album sharing.

The festivities are kicking off as Google Play Books begins celebrating its birthday weekend with Android, iOS, and more readers.

In a Keyword post, Google announced that Play Books is turning 15 this weekend, and it's looking to bring that celebration to everyone. While there are stats and features regarding Play Books, Google says that users can expect a gift this weekend: the gift of 15x points. Beginning today (Dec 5) through December 7, users purchasing books can earn 15x the Play Points.

The company says this boost will apply to all users regardless of their Play Points level.

Since launching in 2010, Google says Play Books has expanded to over 75 countries and has built a library of "over 10 million ebooks and audiobooks." The company draws attention to its shelves, which helps users organize their books by genre or author. Users are also able to access their Play Books library between devices. Users can quickly pick up their stories from one phone to another (or even a tablet) without a problem.

Samples in Google Play Books give users a chance to understand the prose or general pacing of a book in question. More than that, the subscription gives users quick alerts when a new title is added to their favorite series.

Happy Birthday, Google Play Books

Google Play Books is back in the spotlight after the Play Store celebrated the year's end with its typical "Best Of" showcase. While apps like Focus Friends and Pokémon TCG Pocket won Best Overall app and Best Game, stories for quiet moments were also highlighted. Per Google, The Raven Scholar by Antonia Hodgson won its pick for "Best Fantasy," while Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister took "Favorite Thriller."

For kids, Wind Watchers by Micha Archer was Google's favorite picture book.

Play Books isn't the only app celebrating its birthday this year, as Google Photos popped some fireworks for its 10th birthday in May.

That birthday update brought two major features to users on Android and iOS: a redesigned editing interface and QR codes. The Photos app's redesigned editor included AI suggestions to help users quickly spruce up their photos, so they can quickly save, share, and more. Additionally, QR codes are a new alternative to sharing albums.

What you need to know

• The dedicated perspective correction tool, which was quietly stripped from the Google Photos app months ago, is making a comeback.
• The original tool was crucial for granular vertical and horizontal adjustments, like fixing leaning buildings or wonky angles.
• The rollout is limited for now, likely a server-side switch that hasn’t reached all users yet.

Google may be walking back one of its most frustrating changes to Photos. After quietly stripping out the dedicated perspective correction tool a few months ago, Google appears to be bringing the feature back to the app.

Earlier this year, the app suddenly removed the basic straightening and skew adjustment tool, taking away one of its most useful editing features without any warning. Now, Android Authority has found signs in a recent build of the app suggesting that the "Perspective crop" option is quietly reappearing for some people — and its comeback feels like Google admitting the removal never made sense in the first place.

After the change, users had to rely on awkward workarounds, third-party apps, or the basic auto-straightening options in Google Photos. Some similar options are available in the main crop interface. If you tap the Auto Frame button, a level indicator appears so you can adjust an image's perspective, as shown below.

The awkward workarounds we endured

However, these options lacked the granular vertical and horizontal corrections that made the original tool so essential — especially for fixing leaning buildings, wonky desk shots, and lopsided wide-angle photos.

You’ll know the perspective crop tool is available when its icon appears in the crop menu or through the framing shortcut in the top-left corner. Once it shows up, it works just as you’d expect. You can straighten photos, fix warped lines, and adjust awkward angles with full manual control again.

Not everyone has access to the tool yet. Google still needs to enable the feature for more users. If Google brings back Perspective for everyone, editing photos will be faster and much less frustrating. Many users have said that removing the tool made simple edits harder than they needed to be.

For now, the easiest way to check is to open any photo and look at your editing bar. If you see the perspective crop icon, you’re among the first to get it back, which could mean a wider rollout is coming.

What you need to know

• Google is reportedly working on a gradient color redesign for its app icons for Maps and Photos.
• While the Photos' app change is more minimalistic, it seems that the individual petals are a little wider.
• The Maps icon sees a bigger change, as it appears a little more stout, and as it adopts that seamless blend between hues.

Google's doing a little house cleaning as we get into fall, revamping the icons of apps you might reach for daily.

Google has been rocking its four-color classic (red, blue, green, and yellow), but that's undergone some small, more modern changes as of late. In a report by 9to5Google, it looks like the company's preparing to bring those same adjustments to a couple of popular apps. Via an unnamed source, the publication states Google is working on revamping the logos for Maps and Photos.

Regarding the latter, the Photos icon redesign is much simpler. It looks like Google will make the individual petals a little wider, and really embrace the rounded mindset. However, when it comes to the gradient, the Photos app doesn't hit quite as hard. The redesign looks like there's more of a bright spot in the center that tries to invoke that gradient, which only comes through modestly.

You can faintly see how the colors slowly shift between the hues, but perhaps, once it's on our phones, we'll see it in a better light.

For Maps, Google's changes are more evident, as it opts to increase the pin's center, and smooth the colors, so they seamlessly merge into one another. It's easy to see how the colors blend into each other, going from yellow to orange to red and to purple. The Google Maps icon is a little more stout, too, because the empty center is a little wider.

Nothing's appeared just yet, but it seems that we should at least expect these icon redesigns to arrive sometime in the future.

Google's looking vibrant

Google's started refreshing its on-device app logos, and even logos present elsewhere, since May. During Google's spring of Android announcements, the company revealed its newer, vibrant "G" logo. Much like what's been reported about Maps and Photos, the Google app got refreshed with a gradient color effect.

The updated icon was first spotted on the Apple App Store, ahead of its expected arrival on the Play Store. This change was just a prelude to something bigger, which ended up becoming reality late in September. The "G" logo's change shifted in line with the company's AI advancements and tools, like Gemini. The logo's change marked a notable shift, as Google moved more into its AI models and the like, bringing the gradient shift across its entire brand.

We've been expecting the gradient changes to hit even more apps, and it seems we can at least expect it for Maps and Photos in the future. The only wonder now is whether or not Google Chrome will see a similar change, considering blue sits right in the center of the browser's icon.

What you need to know

• A dedicated “Ask” button could soon appear right inside Google Photos' photo viewer, letting users query their library without switching screens.
• The Ask Photos tool uses AI to understand conversational prompts.
• Additionally, hidden code references a new “Outfits collection,” possibly tied to Google’s Doppl virtual try-on tech, suggesting future fashion and style organization features.

Google appears to be testing a new shortcut for the “Ask Photos” feature that pops up while viewing a photo, so you don’t have to leave your image and navigate to a separate tab.

A recent app teardown by the folks at Android Authority revealed that Google is testing a new “Ask” button that could sit right inside the photo viewer, allowing users to query their photo library without leaving the screen they’re on.

The button connects directly to the Ask Photos feature, Google’s AI-powered tool that lets you search your library conversationally rather than typing keywords. So instead of digging through folders or typing “birthday 2022,” you could simply ask, “Show me photos from my last birthday,” and get an instant, context-aware response.

The feature was spotted in version 7.52.0 of the app. The move fits into Google’s broader plan to make Google Photos more than just a storage hub. Behind the scenes, code hints at a new “Outfits collection,” which could automatically organize your wardrobe photos into a dedicated space.

Style meets AI

That might sound trivial, but it ties neatly into Google’s growing interest in AI-assisted style tools. It's expected that this could link up with Doppl, the company’s virtual try-on technology. If it happens, you might one day use Google Photos not only to revisit memories but also to restyle yourself—uploading outfit photos, comparing looks, and generating new combinations based on your existing wardrobe.

It’s not confirmed yet, but it hints at how Google is quietly turning Photos into something that feels more like a personal visual assistant.

At the moment, Ask Photos itself is still limited. The feature is currently available only in the United States and can be accessed via a separate Ask tab in the Photos app for users who meet the eligibility requirements.

The dedicated shortcut button discovered in the teardown hasn’t been officially announced, meaning it might take a while before users outside the U.S. see it. Likewise, the Outfits collection and Doppl integration are speculative for now, since early code references don’t always translate into a public rollout.

What you need to know

• Google announced an update for the Photos app that brings "video creation templates" to users.
• Users can find these templates when creating a Highlight video, which is a pre-made video, fully equipped with music, text, and beat-matching.
• Google says users can let the AI automatically grab appropriate camera roll content, or they can take over manually, and edit the resulting video with new music and more.
• YouTube Shorts also got its own version of templates, which lets content creators easily hop on the speeding train.

Google's sprinkling in a bit of fun creativity for users interested in creating the perfect video to share with others.

The company announced that the Google Photos app is preparing to roll out "video creation templates" on Android (via 9to5Google). This new template set is said to be "smarter" and more "helpful" to the user. Google's calling these new templates "trendy" with automation and "smart media selection," capable of deciding the best shots from your camera roll that you should use.

Users can also get a little more creative with music and text.

In a support document for the feature, Google explains how to create a "Highlight Video," which can leverage these templates. Users must first navigate to Google Photos > Create > Highlight Video to get going. Once there, Google says you'll find a selection of templates, which are all "pre-made videos" that already feature music, text, and beat-matching. Once the template you want is selected, users can manually pick their photos, or let Google's automation do the work for them through "Help me select."

The manual side involves using Photos' Search, and typing in names, dates, and places.

The reviewing/editing process is where some more user creativity can come into play. Users can tap the music note icon to swap the tunes, reorder their clips, or remove them. The publication states that the new templates haven't appeared widely just yet, but that shouldn't take long to change.

A template for highlights

Google Photos celebrated its 10th birthday earlier this summer, and it looks like the company behind it isn't slowing down the new features. In September, the Photos app incorporated Veo 3's image-to-video generation technology. This gave users the ability to create short, six-second clips with incredibly high-quality, using their own imagery. The Create tab is where this all takes place, giving access to more tools, alongside the Veo 3 model.

Also, the idea of hopping on trends and templates is quite familiar following YouTube's update. Shorts gained a new feature, which gave short-form content creators a "template" button when watching other videos. In Remix, users will find a "use this template" icon that brings that trending music or sound clip into their dashboard, so they can put their own spin on things.

YouTube said it was preparing an expansion to its template feature, enabling users to grab multiple clips for videos.

What you need to know

• Google is expanding its conversational editing feature in Photos to eligible Android users in the U.S.
• The Gemini-powered tool lets users type edit requests, and Photos automatically makes the changes.
• The feature was previously exclusive to Pixel 10 phones but is now rolling out to other Android devices.

Google has announced that it is expanding the conversational editing feature in Google Photos to all eligible Android users in the U.S.

One of the standout AI tools introduced with the Pixel 10 series was conversational editing in Google Photos. As the name suggests, the feature lets users simply type what they want changed or edited in a photo, and Google Photos, powered by Gemini in the background, makes those edits without any manual input.

In the editing interface, you will see a new "Help me edit" text field at the bottom of the screen, where you can describe the desired changes. Until now, the feature was exclusive to Pixel 10 phones in the U.S., but Google is now expanding it to more Android devices in the region.

This AI upgrade makes photo editing effortless

However, the rollout is limited to "eligible" users. According to Google's support page, you must be 18 years or older, have your Google account language set to English (U.S.), enable Face Groups in Google Photos, and turn on location estimates to access the feature.

If you meet these requirements, Google says the update should reach your device pretty soon. According to 9to5Google, the feature is already rolling out to non-Pixel devices like the OnePlus 13 and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Google, in its blog post, highlights that conversational editing isn't limited to basic tweaks like brightening or enhancing photos. It can handle complex edits such as removing reflections, expanding an image's frame, or even restoring faded photos. The feature can also interpret more creative prompts, like visualizing a future home setup.

The company also highlighted the new Create tab in Google Photos, which now features an improved collage creator and an upgraded photo-to-video generator, which has already rolled out to users, making it easier to turn memories into shareable clips.

Welcome to Ask Jerry, where we talk about any and all the questions you might have about the smart things in your life. I'm Jerry, and I have spent the better part of my life working with tech. I have a background in engineering and R&D and have been covering Android and Google for the past 15 years.

I'm also really good at researching data about everything — that's a big part of our job here at Android Central — and I love to help people (another big part of our job!). If you have questions about your tech, I'd love to talk about them.

Email me at askjerryac@gmail.com, and I'll try to get things sorted out. You can remain anonymous if you like, and we promise we're not sharing anything we don't cover here.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Who gets to see my photos?

Anon asks:

To me there's a difference between private photos I'm saving on the cloud and ones I am sharing with an app. I was wondering what happens after I upload a picture? Who gets to see it? What are companies doing with them?

Any insight?

Thanks.

Whoa. This is an awesome question that should concern all of us. Thanks so much for sending it in and sharing it with us.

It's also hard to answer in many ways, confusing is plenty of others, and a little disturbing when talking about some companies. Let's dig into it.

First things first: a computer, but not necessarily a person, looks over every single image you upload anywhere. It's for a good reason, because there are photographs that shouldn't have ever been taken and aren't "normal" for anyone to save. Pictures that exploit children are a great example, as are certain types of photos saved or shared with the wrong intentions. Nobody should have a problem wiping all that mess off the face of the planet.

Sometimes — and I stress sometimes — a person will need to check a photo that was flagged as not permitted. I happen to know someone who does this for a living, and she tells me it's extremely disturbing seeing what some people are trying to save. It sounds like this is, unfortunately, a necessary evil.

Some companies do more, of course. Meta is a prime example. In July 2025, it was discovered that the company had trained its AI on every photo uploaded to Facebook, Messenger, or Instagram since 2007. The company states it no longer trains current AI models this way, but never outright says that it stopped analyzing photos.

It's important that this is only for uploaded photos. Meta also has an opt-in service that randomly grabs photos from your on-device library and uploads them to be analyzed.

Other companies make sure to explain that they do not do anything similar. Google Photos, for example, states it doesn't train any AI using your photos, and they would be used for such only if shared with other third parties at your request.

Unfortunately, it's not so cut-and-dried in most cases. Tech companies have privacy policies that they mostly follow, but these are often written in language that's hard to understand, are so long that nobody would need them, and are subject to changes at any time, even after you've agreed to the terms.

It's almost impossible to tell what happens to pictures you share, let alone the ones you save in the cloud and don't intend to share in most cases.

Assume the worst

What most of us need to do is assume that everything we have ever posted online, publicly or privately, isn't ours alone. With the dawn of AI-everywhere, there is a good chance that every word you type and every image you upload is being used to make it all work.

It's easy to assume that X, for example, is using your posts to train AI, because they are closely tied to an AI company. But most AI companies also buy data. That message you posted in the lobby of some silly phone game you downloaded is probably saved and offered as part of an AI-training package for sale to the highest bidder.

This isn't a big deal to a lot of people, but for others, it is. Only you can decide if Google or OpenAI using all of your Reddit posts matters to you (they do). It's also not going to change any time soon in many places: remember, data privacy laws apply, so if you live in the EU, for example, there are different rules for your data than there are in the U.S.

Assume everything you do online is out there for the rest of us to see if you want to be proactive. You can't scrub it away, no matter how hard you try, so be thoughtful before you share anything. No matter how much we may not like it, it will be OK.

Google Photos just turned 10, and that anniversary brought a complete redesign for the app's editing tools. Magic Editor, a staple of the Google Photos app introduced with the Google Pixel 8 series, is now split up into various separate tools. There's Magic Eraser for object removal and Move or Reimagine for generative editing, plus a slew of other AI tricks.

If you're thrown off by the new interface, this complete guide with help you master the AI features in the Google Photos app. Many of them are available to anyone with a Google account, so you don't need a Google Pixel phone or subscription for access. Let's dive in!

Google Photos: Features and availability

The Google Photos app in Android 16 now sports the new editing interface, which you access by selecting a photo and tapping the Edit button in the toolbar. Instead of having a dedicated Magic Editor button in the Edit interface, there's a new toolbar with Auto, Actions, Markup, Filters, Lighting, and Color tabs. Beside the toolbar is a Search button that lets you search for the specific tool you need, which is always great to keep in mind if you can't find something in the new interface.

Magic Editor is gone, but its core features are still present under new names and locations. If you tap or circle an area of a photo with the editor open, you'll see options for Erase, Move, and Reimagine. Effectively, the new version of Magic Eraser replaces the basic Magic Editor object removal tool, while Move and Reimagine remain. The last Magic Editor tool, Auto frame, is now hidden behind the Crop interface in the Actions toolbar.

You'll see this new Google Photos editor after updating your Android phone to the latest version of Android 16. For now, the iOS version of the Google Photos appears to have the old interface with Magic Editor still available.

Google Photos: How to use Magic Eraser

Magic Eraser is the new home for object removal in Google Photos, and there are two ways to use it. Here's how to do it:

1. Open the Google Photos app and select a photo.

2. Tap the Edit button in the toolbar.

3. Open the Actions tab and select Magic Eraser. Alternatively, tap or circle the part of the photo you want to modify and press Erase.

4. If you haven't already, tap or circle the part of the image you want to erase.

5. Tap Erase to use Magic Eraser, or press Deselect or Refine selection if the editor didn't identify the object correctly.

6. Press the checkmark to accept the edited version or tap the back button to try again.

7. Tap Save as copy to add the new version to your Google Photos library.

Google Photos: How to use Photo Unblur

Photo Unblur is a handy feature that uses AI clean up blurry images, and it works best with older photos that suffer from motion blur. It's in a new spot in the Google Photos app, but here's how to use it:

1. Open the Google Photos app and select a photo.

2. Tap the Edit button in the toolbar.

3. Open the Actions tab and select Photo Unblur.

4. Once finished, use the slider to adjust intensity, and tap Save as copy to add the unblurred photo to your gallery.

Google Photos: How to use Reimagine

Reimagine is a generative AI tool built into the Google Photos editor. Rather than merely erasing objects, Reimagine changes your image by modifying and adding things to the photo using generative fill. You can try it by following the steps below:

1. Open the Google Photos app and select a photo.

2. Tap the Edit button in the toolbar.

3. Tap or circle the part of the photo you want to modify and press Reimagine.

4. Type a prompt into the Reimagine text box and press the arrow to continue.

5. Choose an option and press the checkmark when finished. Alternatively, go back and type a new prompt to get better results.

6. Tap the Save as copy button to add the new image to your Google Photos library.

Google Photos: How to use Auto Frame

Not sure how to crop and frame an image to get the perfect look? Auto frame can do it for you automatically within the standard Google Photos crop tool. Here's how to use it:

1. Open the Google Photos app and select a photo.

2. Tap the Edit button in the toolbar.

3. Open the Actions tab and select Crop.

4. Press Auto frame.

5. Wait for Auto frame to generate options, then select your favorite.

6. Tap the checkmark to continue.

7. Press the Save as copy button to add the new image to your Google Photos library.

Google Photos: How to use Move

To adjust the location of something in your photo, the Google Photos editor has a tool called Move. It essentially allows you to select an object, drag it to where you want it, and use AI to fill in the empty spot left behind. Here's how to use it:

1. Open the Google Photos app and select a photo.

2. Tap the Edit button in the toolbar.

3. Tap or circle the part of the photo you want to modify and press Move.

4. Touch and hold to move the part of the photo, and pinch to resize. Then tap Move when finished.

5. Press the checkmark if you're happy with the results, or tap the back button to try again.

6. Tap the Save as copy button to add the new image to your Google Photos library.

Google Photos: How to use Zoom Enhance

Zoom Enhance uses AI to improve your crops and digital zoom by enhancing the photo and removing grain and artifacting. Since digital zoom is lossy, the artificial intelligence aims to preserve as much of the original detail as possible by filling the gaps with generation. Here's how to use it:

1. Open the Google Photos app and select a photo.

2. Tap the Edit button in the toolbar.

3. Open the Actions tab and select Zoom Enhance.

4. Zoom in and tap Enhance Details.

5. After the image finishes enhancing, tap the checkmark to finish, and tap and hold to compare to the original.

6. Press Save as copy to add the zoomed and enhanced photo to your gallery.

Google Photos: How to use AI Enhance

AI enhance is a quick way to improve the quality of an image in Google Photos, as it can adjust colors, lighting, and add clarity all at one. Here's how to use it:

1. Open the Google Photos app and select a photo.

2. Tap the Edit button in the toolbar.

3. Press AI Enhance to enhance the image.

4. Swipe through the options and tap Save as copy when finished.

Google Photos: Tips & tricks

The best trick for navigating the redesigned Google Photos editor is the search bar. It's clutch for quickly accessing an AI editing tool that you can't find in the toolbar. After you open the search bar, you'll see a scrollable list of edit tools that is much easier to navigate than the toolbar with multiple menus. As you type in your search query, the list shrinks to only include the tools that match your request.

Also, keep in mind that Google maintains Magic Editor isn't removed, but rather split up into the standalone features of Magic Eraser, Auto frame, Move, and Reimagine. While the Magic Eraser tool was formerly known as a lesser version of Magic Editor, that isn't the case anymore following the update. All your favorite AI editing tools are still here, they may just be in a different spot or listed under a different name.

While many of these features are crossplatform, for the best experience, you may need a Google Pixel phone or a Google AI Pro subscription.

What you need to know

• Google expands Pixel 10 conversational image editing to all U.S. Android users.
• Users can now edit photos using voice or text prompts for effortless adjustments.
• Gemini offers multiple edited options and retains transparency in AI-generated changes.

Google announced today (Sept. 23) that it is expanding a Pixel 10 conversational image editing feature to all Android users in the U.S. Earlier, Android users could "Ask Photos" for certain images, information, and assistance through a conversational AI agent; now, with the new flagship launch, users can ask Gemini to edit pictures for them, without needing to switch between apps or look up the right tools to make their images look perfect.

Google says, all you have to do is "simply describe the edits you want using your voice or text and watch Google Photos bring your vision to life." This means you could keep the editing simple by asking the image editor to "make this image" better, and Gemini will make the necessary adjustments to the image, like adjusting the brightness, contrast, and removing unnecessary noise from the picture, so you don't manually have to. Or you can take it a step further, imagine your pet or that alpaca from the petting zoo chilling in Hawaii with a mojito—Gemini can make it happen.

It makes things extremely easy when it comes to editing photos, since you can basically chat or speak to Gemini to make certain edits for you that seem somewhat of a task, like Magic Eraser; you previously had to manually refine areas that weren't fully erased, but Gemini streamlines this process.

But now, with conversational edits, you can just give Gemini a prompt to “remove the cars in the background” or something more general like “restore this old photo,” and Photos will understand the changes you’re trying to make. And the best part is that Gemini gives you multiple edited images to pick from, so you can choose the one that matches your original idea.

And it doesn't end there; you will also be able to give Gemini multiple edits in one go, like “remove the reflections and fix the washed-out colors.” The AI bot also gives you several prompt suggestions based on the image you're editing, which helps out if you need a little inspiration. Once Gemini generates the edited image, you can also give it follow-up instructions to "fine-tune" your image as well.

Lastly, within the image's details, Google will keep things transparent in the picture by indicating that these edits were made using AI tools. All eligible Android users in the U.S. can try out this feature starting today.

What you need to know

• Google Photos' photo-to-video feature is now powered by the new Veo 3 model.
• Users can turn still images into six-second clips with higher-quality results.
• A new Create tab in Photos gives access to creative tools including Veo 3.
• The Create tab also features Remix, Highlight videos, collages, and animations.

Google today (September 4) announced that the photo-to-video feature in the Google Photos app is being upgraded with the company's latest state-of-the-art Veo 3 video generation model.

Similar to its Workspace apps like Gmail and Drive, Google has been slowly integrating its AI models into Photos. It's been just over a month since we got the ability to convert photos into videos in the Photos app, and today the company announced it is upgrading the underlying model to Veo 3.

For those unaware, photo-to-video in Google Photos lets users turn still images into short clips of about six seconds. The feature has been powered by Google's Veo 2 model until now, but the upgrade to Veo 3 should result in "even higher-quality clips."

Photo-to-video gets smarter with Veo 3

To use this feature, the company is also rolling out its new "Create" tab in the Google Photos app. Now, along with Photos, Collection, and Search, you'll see a new "Create" tab at the bottom, where you can access all creative features.

To convert a photo into a video, head to the Create tab, select your photo, and pick between two prompts: "Subtle movement" or "I’m feeling lucky."

Google Photos then uses Veo 3 to create a short clip. You can share the video directly from the app or save it for later. Google says users get a "limited number of generations each day," with higher limits for Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers.

Beyond photo-to-video, the Create tab also includes Remix, which converts images into anime, comic, sketch, or 3D animation styles. Another new feature is Highlight videos, letting you create clips with phrases like "Mom" and "Paris," after which it selects photos and videos, adds music, and builds a video.

Other features like collage, Cinematic photos, and Animations will also live in the Create tab.

Google says the new Create tab and photo-to-video powered by Veo 3 are now available to U.S. users. There's no word yet on when these features will roll out to other regions, but it should be sooner rather than later.

This is Android Central's News Weekly, your go-to source for a concise roundup of the week's most significant tech stories. This is where we delve into the top headlines that provide the latest developments and innovations contributing to the digital landscape.

This week, we're heavily focusing on Made by Google and its aftermath with Google launching its new flagship Pixel 10 series, the tech giant solving a major OLED display issue, we break down why only the Pixel 10 Pro XL supports 25 W charging, Google sneakily shows off its next smart speaker, and folks aren't having it with Google Photos' new UI. Let's get into it.

Here comes the Pixel 10 series

Read more here

The Pixel 10 series maintains a familiar design with a distinctive camera bar, but introduces significant upgrades under the hood. All three models—the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL—are powered by the new Tensor G5 processor and Titan M2 security coprocessor.

They finally include native Qi2 wireless charging, and boast a battery life of over 30 hours, with up to 100 hours in Extreme Battery Saver mode. On the software side, they launch with Android 16 and will receive seven years of updates, while on-device AI is enhanced by Gemini Nano, which powers new features like "Camera Coach" and "Night Sight" to assist users with photography and more.

Pixel 10:

Google finally added a third lens to the base Pixel 10's rear camera array, on par with the rest of the lineup.

The base model Pixel 10 gets the same 6.3-inch display, which is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and a polished rear panel with a satin finish, also made of Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The frame of the device is made from spacecraft-grade aluminum.

As for the battery, the phone sees a larger 4,970 mAh battery with faster charging. Pixel 10 gets a new metallic-looking Indigo color, as well as Frost, Lemongrass, and Obsidian, and gets a price tag starting at $799.

Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL:

The Pixel 10 Pro features a 6.3-inch display, while the larger Pixel 10 Pro XL gets a 6.8-inch display, both of which are brighter. They also feature larger batteries and new AI features powered by the Tensor G5.

The rear camera pill on both phones consists of the same 50 MP wide, 48 MP ultrawide, and another 48 MP 5x telephoto lens, complete with a 42MP front camera for your selfies and video calls, similar to its predecessors.

There's not much difference between these two phones aside from one being larger and featuring a bigger battery.

Both the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL are available for pre-orders starting today (Aug 20) for $999 and $1,199, respectively.

Pixel 10 Pro Fold:

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold arrives as the world's first IP68 dust and water-resistant foldable phone, thanks to its more durable "gearless" hinge. Plus, it's the first foldable to pack Qi2 charging!

Speaking of the display, the fold gets a large 8-inch Super ActuaFlex inner display and a 6.4-inch cover display with much thinner bezels compared to its predecessor.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold features a squared triple camera array on its rear panel, with a 48MP primary (wide) camera, a 10.5MP ultra-wide camera, and a 10.8MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom and Super Res Zoom up to 20x. The cover display's camera is 10MP, the same as the inner display's lens.

Also, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, unlike the rest of the lineup, gets a physical SIM slot. Google states users still have its physical SIM, as well as an eSIM option. The device shows up in two new colorways: Moonstone and Jade, and is priced at $1,799.

Google finally tackles a major OLED display issue

Read more here

Google seems to have finally begun to address the OLED display's biggest problem, aka PWM dimming. Lower frequency dimming (like the 240Hz on the base Pixel 10 and previous models) is more noticeable to people with sensitive eyes and can cause mild to severe discomfort, leading to headaches.

This year, the tech giant has taken matters into its hands and added a new accessibility setting called "Adjust brightness for sensitive eyes" on Google Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL devices. AC's Senior Editor Nick Sutrich got to check out this feature in action during his content capture at Google.

It is important to note that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold also features the setting only for the inner display, since its outer display is just like the base Pixel 10, which doesn't support the new "sensitive eyes" feature.

Google snuck its upcoming smart speaker during Made by Google

Read more here and here

Blink, and you missed it! The bit during Google's Pixel launch yesterday when we got to see a quick sneak at an unannounced mysterious smart speaker that showed up in the Gemini Home demo.

During Lando Norris' cameo, a smaller speaker-like object was placed on the table next to him, which looked almost like a squished sphere with a bright Gemini ring light beneath it, which illuminates blue and purple when the AI is speaking.

While we were thinking this might be an early iteration of Google's Nest Mini, a new leak spills a little more information about Google's smart home device.

The speaker will allegedly feature Gemini Live so that users can have intuitive conversations with it and will also be able to sense unusual activity in your home, like "the sound of glass breaking during a break in or your smoke alarm going off, and it can send an alert to your phone or tablet to let you know."

Pixel 10 Pro XL's charging advantage explained

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Google seems to be playing favorites when it comes to granting charging speeds for its models. Only the Pixel 10 Pro XL supports up to 25W faster wireless charging (Qi2.2), while its smaller siblings, the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro, support only up to 15W wireless charging (Qi2), and there's a good reason why.

During the Pixel 10 series showcase, a Google spokesperson explained that Google took this decision due to several factors. "One of the biggest challenges with wireless charging is managing heat. Wireless charging can heat devices significantly, which can in turn harm the battery, wearing it down faster (or in rare cases even catching fire).

Some Pixel 6a models have also been catching fire while charging, which could explain Google taking an extra cautious approach.

Google Photo's new editing UI woes

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Google has rolled out a new photo editing UI, and it seems like not many users are happy about it. One of them took to the Google Pixel subreddit to post an in-depth review of the latest Photos app editor UI changes.

They claim the new photo editor is "unusable" and even "less functional" when compared to the app's previous design. Some of the other complaints were that the "display image" during photo editing was considerably smaller, and made the UI look "cluttered."

Furthermore, the community pointed out that they lost some of the features that they really felt were useful, like the "Pop and Sharpen" sliders (which are now applied as actions), quickly toggling a slider on and off, and most notably, the perspective correction tool, which was a favorite for straightening photos.

More stories this week

Those are some of the biggest stories from this week. Meanwhile, here are some other stories that are worth catching up on:

• Google exec's brief Gemini teaser foresees the AI in your car, TV, and home
• Smart ring rivalry heats up: Ultrahuman sues Oura over patent claims
• Fitbit users rejoice as Dark Mode finally hits Android in latest update
• Pixel 10 says goodbye to reverse charging in favor of Qi2 magnets
• The Pixel 10 series rekindles the history of Google's phones from 2016 to today
• Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1: What's new after the Pixel 10 launch event?
• The Garmin August 2025 update throws the Forerunner 970's best tricks onto other watches
• Google expands Pixel ecosystem with new Qi2 Pixelsnap and Pixel Watch 4 accessories
• Base Pixel 10 (again) misses out on the free year of Google AI Pro
• Meta’s next-gen smart glasses could land next month for less cash than you’d think

What you need to know

• Users on the Google Pixel subreddit have reported troubling times with the company's new Photos app editor UI.
• Reports state the UI is "far too cluttered" and that simple ways of making "rapid edits" no longer exist as issues with the new sliders and crop corners are highlighted.
• Google celebrated 10 years of the Photos app in May, which brought about this new editor UI and QR codes for sharing albums.

Google's new photo editing UI in the Photos app has started appearing for users, and the verdict is anything but positive.

User Smoke-away on the Google Pixel subreddit posted an in-depth personal review of the latest Photos app editor UI changes. Overall, the user claims the new photo editor is "unusable" and even "less functional" when compared to the app's previous design. One of the user's gripes was that the "display image" when editing a photo is much smaller, which doesn't make things better when the UI is already "far too cluttered."

To explain, the user states several UI elements, such as the editor's sliders, feel a little too tedious. The update makes it so users are forced to "tap in and out" of sliders in order to move between each one. If a user has changed an aspect of their photo using a slider, the post states "the button doesn't stay highlighted to let you know it was adjusted."

Quickly toggling sliders isn't occurring as it used to with the editor update; swiping through sliders takes more rotations as they've been enlarged. More importantly, the user states the core of the editor's old UI, which enabled them to do "rapid edits" on one panel with the tap of a button, no longer exists.

The user states the previous Photos editor was more "minimal," which worked better for fixing up their photography, rather than what's rolled in recently. Other users chimed in, agreeing with the OP (original poster), stating the UI has become cluttered/a mess and that "losing visual space" with the changes done to the crop corners is "pointless."

Once a celebration, now an issue

The new Google Photos editor is terrible. Please revert. from r/GooglePixel

In May, Google Photos celebrated its 10th anniversary as the gallery and editor for users and their memories. While it was momentous for Google, the company wanted to gift its users two updates, and one of those updates was this new editor UI. At the time, Google said its editor UI updates would offer "AI-powered suggestions" while fixing your captures. Additionally, Google said that the changes would further encourage "quick edits."

In contrast to what Google's said, end-users aren't finding these changes so favorable. Some, like the OP, would like to roll back instead of keeping what Google's brought.

Google's May update informed users that they could also tap on a specific part of their photo to receive AI suggestions on how to fix it. The second update brought a patch to sharing in Google Photos. Now, users can retrieve a QR code and let their loved ones scan it to see the album on their phones.

A more recent update from July for the Photos app dropped a fresh look for photo view. Users on iOS are able to view "glanceable" photo information, as well as a refined action menu. The update was listed as "coming soon" for Android.

What you need to know

• On Pixel 10, you can now just tell Google Photos what changes you want by voice or text, and it’ll handle the rest.
• Tap or circle parts of your photo and Photos will offer AI-powered fixes for distractions, lighting, or other tweaks.
• You can ask for multiple edits in one go, and beyond fixes, you can swap backgrounds, add fun items, or try bold creative edits.

Google is making photo editing in Google Photos feel more like a conversation. Starting with the Google Pixel 10 in the U.S., users can now ask Photos to make edits using plain language, either by typing or speaking.

The update builds on Google’s redesigned photo editor, which already made editing faster by combining multiple AI-powered suggestions and putting all tools in one easy-to-access place. Now, you can simply tap or circle areas in a photo, and Photos will suggest edits for that specific spot, like removing distractions, without fiddling with sliders or menus.

Speak it, see it — photos edited instantly

With conversational editing, you don’t need to know which tools to use. Ask for precise changes like “remove the cars in the background” or broader edits like “restore this old photo,” and Photos gets it.

You can even layer multiple requests in one go, such as “remove reflections and fix the washed-out colors.” If you’re unsure where to start, a simple “make it better” will get the ball rolling, with the option to tweak results afterward.

All these edits were already tucked into Google Photos, but now you can just tell Gemini what to fix without needing to hunt for the right slider or tool. If you like polishing your pics but get tangled in all the options, this makes it way simpler to get them looking exactly how you want.

The update also opens the door for more creative touches. Users can swap backgrounds, add playful elements like party hats or sunglasses, or try other imaginative edits, all without worrying about the technical side of editing.

Transparency built in

Pixel 10 owners will also get the first taste of industry-standard C2PA Content Credentials in Google Photos. This feature shows how images were captured or edited, whether AI was involved or not.

Google is rolling this out alongside existing tools like IPTC metadata for AI-edited photos and SynthID for Reimagine edits. Over the coming weeks, these transparency features will expand to Android and iOS devices, letting users see the story behind every photo.

Powered by Google’s Gemini models, these updates are aimed to show how AI can simplify, speed up, and enhance photo editing while keeping things understandable and transparent.

What you need to know

• Google Photos is reportedly receiving update v7.40 today (Aug 13), which carries the company's promised "Create" tab.
• This tab will house all of the app's AI features, like photo-to-video, Remix, collage, and more.
• Google announced this new tab in July, stating users would begin noticing it in August in the U.S. before other regions.

A major update is rolling out for Google Photos today (Aug 13), which finally brings its hub for generative features previously talked about in July.

Spotted this afternoon (Aug 13) by 9to5Google, the Google Photos app is reportedly rolling out v7.40 with its previously announced "Create" tab. The company stated it was looking to release this new hub for its creative-focused features in August, and we're seeing that appear now in the bottom navigation bar.

From the "Create" tab, users will have easy access to features like Collage, Cinematic Photos, Animations (GIF creation), and Highlight Videos.

However, as the publication notes, Google Photos is looking to draw attention to its most recently added capabilities, like photo-to-video generation (which is also in Gemini). Users engaging with this feature can locate a photo in their gallery that they'd like the app to breathe some AI life into. Essentially, your photo will show some movement, making the person or people in it move a little or make a cool gesture, like celebrating.

Version 7.40 is also reportedly bringing a small plus icon at the top of the Create tab, right beside your Google Account icon. This is a drop-down menu that houses many of the same options you'd find just by scrolling the Create tab. The publication notes that while v7.40 of the Photos app has been spotted, it's not available for every device just yet, so more users will likely see it as we end the week.

Get Creating

Google Photos was part of a huge announcement post in July that detailed the creative updates that were inbound. In this post, the company detailed its upcoming photo-to-video generation capabilities and its Remix option, which could restyle your photos into Anime, 3D animation, and more. However, wrapping up all of this nicely is the "Create" tab.

All of the AI features that Google Photos provides will be housed directly in this new Create tab. Users can quickly hop into any of them from this tab, select the photos they'd like to mess with, and proceed without a hitch (hopefully). Google stated in July that the new tab would arrive for U.S. users first, before extending to other places.

There will almost certainly be a follow-up update at a later date from Google once other regions are ready to go.

Another post this week from Google gave users an in-depth look at how its Remix feature will work in the app. Remix isn't widely available just yet, but this explainer makes sure we're ready to rock once it is.

What you need to know

• Google posted an explainer, detailing how users can get started with the Photos app's Remix feature.
• Users can head into "Create New" and select "Remix" once it's available to reimagine their images in new styles like Anime or Comic Book.
• A "regenerate" option will be present if the result isn't to your liking, as well as a save and share button.
• Remix was highlighted alongside the app's photo-to-video generation capabilities, like the Gemini app.

Google Photos is set to receive a feature that completely changes the style of your images, and the company's explaining how users can get it to work.

Google posted an explainer this week about how users can "edit" their photos with the upcoming Remix feature (via 9to5Google). This update, which is headed for mobile, will have a "Create New" option at the top right of the app with Remix available. Users can try the feature out, selecting one of the following styles: 3D animation, Anime, Sketch, or Comic Book.

Remix will then have users choose a photo they'd like to embody one of these styles before tapping "generate."

If you're unhappy with how the photo turned out, the post states you can "regenerate" the photo in a different style. Additionally, you could likely just backtrack, select a different photo, and repeat the process either with the same style or a totally new style. If you're still encountering difficulties, Google states photos that are well-lit, in focus, and with only a handful of subjects facing the camera yield the best results. Too many people in an image will mess up the Remix.

Once you're happy, the Photos app will let you save and share your images.

Remixing your memories

On one hand, this explainer could serve as fuel for the hype around Remix in Google Photos, as 9to5 notes, the feature's not widely available yet. The publication speculates the Remix update will be "server-side," meaning it'll gradually begin appearing on devices slowly but surely.

Google had first highlighted the upcoming Remix update for the Photos app in mid-July. The feature was mentioned alongside another "creative-focused" photo-to-video update. Just like what Google added in the Gemini app, the Photos app was said to let users turn their still, static images into short six-second video clips.

Users can choose to have the person or people in the photo make small hand gestures/movements or have them do something wacky, like throw confetti into the air. Perhaps with Google detailing the Remix update this week, we're closer to a wider rollout for the feature than we realize.

What you need to know

• Google Photos is receiving a major creativity update, courtesy of the company's AI software.
• The app will soon receive photo-to-video capabilities, similar to Gemini, which lets users create short six second clips of their static images.
• The update also includes "Remix," which lets users turn their real-life photos into anime, 3D animation, and more.
• Google Photos is preparing to house all of its AI generative features in a new "Create" tab, primed for an August launch.

Google's rolling out a major update for its Photos app today (July 23) that leans heavily on unique, creative "remixes" for your memories.

Google announced in a press release that its Photos app is beginning to receive a familiar photo-to-video feature. Similar to what the company rolled out for Gemini in July, Google Photos is receiving photo-to-video capabilities powered by Veo 2. This leverages Google's AI generative software to create a small animated moment out of an otherwise static photo.

Rolling out today (July 23), Google says Photos app users will notice a splash page appear that says "turn your photos into a video." Users can select a photo and then choose "subtle movements" or "I'm feeling lucky." The former is something small and light, while the latter can have your family member tossing confetti into the air or something else.

Google says these clips are six seconds long and that users can share them after creating.

Clips & Remixes

Similarly, users can also "save" their AI-generated clip, if they'd like, or they can "regenerate" to try something new until it's right.

Google's photo-to-video feature in its Photos app is rolling out today on Android and iOS devices in the U.S.

In a similar AI-created vein, Google highlights another feature headed for devices today called "Remix." Remixing your photos lets users reimagine them in a whole new light. Think about turning your Christmas photos into an anime snapshot or a simple birthday party photo into a sketch. Google adds that users will find other options, such as "Comic" and "3D animation."

Lastly, the app can generate remixes of people and pets. Google says Remix will begin rolling out in Photos "in the next few weeks" on Android and iOS devices in the U.S.

Additionally, Google reiterates that photos reimagined through Remix will be marked with a SynthID digital watermark, so others know that the content they're viewing was AI-generated. Despite rolling out officially to all users, Google warns that these features (Remix and photo-to-video) are experimental. It states the AI generation could get things wrong and encourages users to provide feedback via the thumbs-up and thumbs-down icons upon generation.

A Hub for Creation

The latest features rolling out for Google Photos will fly solo for a little while; however, the company plans to introduce a new "Create" tab in August.

This tab will be featured along the bottom of the app's UI, alongside other options like "Photos," "Collection," and "Search." From here, the Create tab will house many of the Photos app's AI features, such as the recently introduced photo-to-video and Remix functions detailed today. Users will also find collages, highlight videos, and more from this tab when it arrives.

U.S. users are said to be the first to receive this Create tab in its August launch.

What you need to know

• Google detailed an update rolling out for its Photos app that revamps its photo view.
• Now, users will find "glanceable" photo information, as well as a newly refined action menu with useful options for photo management.
• The update also includes new three-dot menus for photo stacks and bursts, as well as new badges for live photos.
• Google says it's bringing these adjustments to iOS devices; however, these are "coming soon" to Android.

Google is starting to roll out a huge Photos app update, which brings a redesign to "several" key areas.

In a Google Photos community post, the company highlighted an interest in revamping the photo viewing experience on mobile devices. Google focused on rolling out a more "intuitive" UI update for Photos app users when looking back at their memories. To begin, Google Photos will now display "glanceable" date, time, and location information above a photo. The post states this should "make it easier to pinpoint" when and where the image was taken.

However, the location part of it is something users will need to have active for it to work.

On the other hand, the Photos update is reworking its actions menu. Google says these improvements should help with its "usability and navigation." Via the three-dot menu when viewing a photo, users will find actions like Google Lens, Create, Cast, and more. Other important actions that users might need are listed at the bottom of the photo view UI.

Lastly, Google is bringing in Light Mode. It adds that Photos will switch up its theme (dark and light) based on your device's set preference.

When it comes to viewing photo stacks or bursts, Google Photos will display a small three-dot menu beside its thumbnail at the bottom of the UI. From there, the post says users will find options to change the stack's top photo, remove an image from the stack, unstack, and a multi-select option.

Rounding out the update are Google Photos' new badges in photo view.

Recent Happenings in Google Photos

These badges are said to give users a little more utility right from the view screen. Live photos can be played or paused via a new badge at the top. Additionally, users can change a photo's category, save a shared photo, or backup a picture.

Google states these updates are already available on iOS; however, the same package is "coming soon" for Android.

In May, Google Photos turned 10, and with it came two major updates for the app. The in-app photo editor received a refresh, bringing AI-powered suggestions. Google said its AI suggestions will combine several of the app's built-in editing tools, so users need only tap once to apply the changes for a spruced-up photo. However, users still have the option of tapping individual parts of their photo to edit those specifically.

Additionally, the Photos app supports QR codes for albums, so you can share them more easily.

Another update saw Google upgrade Photos' old HDR effect with a better Ultra HDR version. Placed in the "Adjust" tab, users can apply a stronger HDR editing effect to their pictures, boosting some of those original details.

What you need to know

• Google announced an update for Photos that makes its Ask Photos feature faster for broad/basic queries.
• Now, when asking about general terms like "beaches" or "dogs," Ask Photos will display relevant results first while Gemini works to bring more specific results.
• Ask Photos kicked off its early access in September 2024, but a recent update from earlier this year reworked its Gemini chat UI.

Google's preparing to expand its AI search for photos on Android; however, the feature is picking up the pace for results in its latest update.

The company highlighted an upcoming update for Ask Photos, its AI-based search function in Google Photos, in a keyword blog post. Specifically, Google states it's addressing an prominent issue users have voiced in feedback reports about how "slow" Ask Photos is at returning results. However, this seems to be restricted to the AI's ability to fulfill queries about general/broad things like "beaches" and "dogs," per Google.

The update beginning to rollout this week should make Ask Photos a lot faster at returning answers, but the AI won't stop there.

Google says "You’ll now see results right away" when asking about broader topics you may have in your gallery. Gemini will keep working behind-the-scenes to "find the most relevant photos or information." From the post's example, it seems that Ask Photos will immediately fulfill your query with a grid view of images that correlate to your interest.

Above that will be a smooth Gemini animation of it looking through your photos before delivering the "Best Results" that it think matches your search.

Ask (Gemini) Photos

Joining this update is a wider rollout of Ask Photos in Google Photos. The brief patch notes states the feature is finally opening up "beyond early access" to English-based users in the U.S. who are 18 and above.

The company's AI-based search in Google Photos started showing up last September when Labs made its early access waitlist available. Throughout its testing, Gemini has remained at the center of the feature to help users discover content you have via your text query. Gemini was given the ability to understand queries based on people, food, and places but, as we've seen from reported user feedback, the AI can take a little longer than some would like.

Now, fulfilling these requests should come a lot faster for users just looking for a wide range of what they have.

Ask Photos also underwent a slight UI rework earlier this year. Google cleaned up the chat interface, leading off with a "try asking" section full of suggested actions. It's also this UI that'll be flooded with your photos as Gemini tries to find what you're looking for, alongside its text reply of the content it found for you.

What you need to know

• With new personalizations on RCS Group chats, users can customize group icons and names, check friend RCS availability, and manage notifications.
• Google Photos to incorporate a redesigned editor with AI suggestions, a Reimagine feature, and an Auto frame for easier photo enhancement.
• Google Home app gains access to device-specific shortcuts and the ability to manage favorites across various Google devices.

Android 16 is finally here, and the search giant has announced six new prominent features that should make the experience even better.

RCS Group Enhancements

RCS is one of the greatest ways to connect with your favorite ones, and through group chats, it appears even better. To take things forward, the company will soon be adding some personalization to group chats in Google Messages.

Users will be able to add a custom icon for their RCS group chats and also give unique or personalized names to make them stand out. And, they can check which friends from their contact lists have RCS enabled. Notifications can also be muted on specific group chats for a duration per their preference.

New Google Photos Editor

Google Photos is also gaining a new redesigned image editor, which promises easier editing than ever. It will include new AI-powered suggestions that evidently help users elevate their photos with a single tap. Plus, there will be a new Reimagine feature that lets users describe what they want to see, further making their ideas come to life. Then there is Auto frame to help users expand the scene or crop the image per their preference.

Smarter Home Management

Google Home users will also be able to find and manage smart home products faster with new device-specific shortcuts. These are applicable for their Favorites — like the ability to pin their security cameras on their Google TV, or kitchen speaker to their Android phone, or even pinning the thermostat to their WearOS smartwatch. All such combinations can be set via the Google Home app.

Safety Check is also gaining notable improvements, like adding extra time through the Personal Safety app on your Android phone. For the unaware, Safety Check allows users to schedule a specific check-in time to ensure a user has reached home safely.

In some scenarios where users aren’t able to respond within the check-in time, their locations will be shared with emergency contacts right away. However, sometimes a user may not be able to arrive on time, and in such cases, users will be able to extend or add extra time, instead of creating a new Safety Check.

Emojis and Swift Payments

Emoji Kitchen stickers will now be even more expressive with the inclusion of new sticker combinations as part of the new update. Users will be able to remix their favorite emojis and share them with their favorite ones as stickers through Gboard.

To ensure people have smoother public transit rides, Google will be allowing payments directly from their WearOS smartwatches. They will be able to tap city transit cards even when their Google Wallet app is closed. Users, however, have to ensure that the feature is turned on if they are used to using a credit or debit card to tap.

• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

What you need to know

• Google Photos is celebrating 10 years of service, and its birthday brings two big updates for Android and iOS.
• The first major update involves a redesigned in-app editor for Photos, bringing AI-powered suggestions for quick edits.
• Photos is also receiving QR codes, so users can share albums quicker.
• Google Photos has received two noteworthy updates in the past year, like the "Collections" tab and "Updates."

It's a momentous occasion for Google as it's busting out the streamers and balloons for one of its well-known apps.

Today (May 28), ten years ago, Google Photos debuted as the company's ideal ecosystem for capturing memories. In a blog post, Google brought out the birthday cake and two gifts (updates) to keep Photos on its A-game. To mark a decade, Google Photos is set to receive an updated, redesigned in-app editor. The post states this new editor will offer "AI-powered suggestions" when sprucing up your photos.

More than that, these suggestions will combine several of Google Photos' available AI editing tools for "quick edits." Users can browse through these suggested actions and see if they like the result. However, if you're more interested in one particular part of a photo, Google says you can tap on specific parts and still receive AI editing suggestions.

This update will hit Android in June, leaving iOS users to wait until "later this year."

The second update, though small, breathes new life into sharing Google Photos albums with QR codes. Rolling out today, users can "generate QR codes" to share with people nearby. Those scanning your code can view the album or add pictures.

Photos Extravaganza

Google slips in a few tips to keep Photos users on the ball, like the ability to hide certain people or places from Memories. To do this, the post instructs users to head into Photos > Settings > Preferences > Memories. From there, dates, people, and even pets can be hidden so you're not thrust into sad moments or moments of longing. Additionally, Google reminds users that they can search in Photos using keywords.

The app will be able to leverage your gallery to find instances of you in a dress or even you at a sporting event.

Google drops some analytical knowledge, touting that Photos has roughly 1.5 billion users every month, and over 9 trillion stored photos and videos.

Google Photos has had a couple of notable updates in the past year, like the patch that brought the "Collections" tab. This area replaced the app's old library, giving users a more intuitive, clean look at their albums, documents, and more. The update included a small change to its UI, placing more important options up top, while hiding away buttons for the Locked Folder down below.

A few months later, in late 2024, Google Photos brought in the "Updates" page. Replacing the "Sharing" button, "Updates" gives users a full-on glimpse of new shared albums, photos, and group conversation updates. Let's also not forget that Google Photos is reportedly ready and waiting on a Material 3 Expressive upgrade, which might (hopefully) arrive soon.

What you need to know

• Google Photos is rolling out Ultra HDR, replacing the old HDR effect with a feature that boosts brightness and colors in your pictures.
• You can now add HDR to old photos, no matter when they were taken.
• In version 7.24.0.747539053, Ultra HDR is tucked in the “Adjust” tab, taking over the old HDR spot.

Google Photos is rolling out its new Ultra HDR feature, kicking the old HDR effect to the curb. This upgrade lets you pump up the brightness and colors in your pictures.

This new feature has already started showing up for some Google Photos users, as spotted by Android Authority. Since only a few folks have it so far, it looks like Google is rolling it out on the server side. This also means it should arrive for more devices pretty soon.

If you have a ton of old photos that could use a little extra pop, Google Photos has your back. Its new feature goes beyond the usual edits in that it lets you add HDR magic to pics you’ve already taken, no matter when or how you shot them.

Rescue your old pictures

The latest change comes after the tech giant laid the groundwork with Ultra HDR support in Android 14 and Google Photos last year. The full-on Ultra HDR editing tool inside the app is a solid upgrade that finally lets users tap into the full power of this next-level feature.

In Google Photos version 7.24.0.747539053, the Ultra HDR option lives in the “Adjust” tab, taking over where the old HDR effect used to be.

Android Authority found that when Ultra HDR is applied, you’ll see a new “Ultra HDR” tag in the image metadata, right near the resolution and file size details.

Interestingly, the Ultra HDR version can actually be smaller in size than the original. That’s because it uses a compact gain map instead of duplicating the whole image. Still, if you want to hang onto all the original details, it’s a good idea to keep the original file too, just in case.

Ultra HDR is a fresh take on photo encoding that packs in way more detail, meaning brighter highlights, deeper shadows, and richer colors. What’s cool is that it also includes a standard version (SDR) baked into the same file. So even if someone is using a screen that doesn’t support HDR, they’ll still see a solid, true-to-life version of the image.

What you need to know

• Google recently published a support document that highlights new Gemini and Photos app integration for Android phones and tablets.
• Users can "search for a specific memory or recall information" from their photo galleries with Gemini with detailed places, faces, dates, and events.
• The feature is arriving for a limited group of invited users.
• While the feature seems similar to its "Ask Photos" test, Google teased during a major Gemini app announcement that such capabilities were on the way.

Google recently highlighted a brand new iteration of its Photos app integration with its AI model, Gemini.

As Google upgrades the Gemini mobile app, a new support document states that users can "search for a specific memory or recall information" from their gallery. Users can do so in a variety of ways, beginning with Google's Photos app prompts. The document highlights the ability for users to use natural language with specifics about themes and past events.

Using the @Google Photos (or "my photos" alternatively) tag, the company gives the following example: "What themes have we had for Lena’s birthday parties?" Additionally, you can say something like, "What are the top 10 things we saw on our last trip?"

Specifically, the document states users can " ask for photos" and "ask about them." Users can find specific faces and relationships in photos stored in their gallery. The Photos app integration in Gemini will also accept questions about locations and the dates a picture was taken. Moreover, users can attempt to describe the photo they're looking for and have Gemini take care of the rest.

Once Gemini discovers what you're looking for, Google says users can tap the picture in the AI's app, which will open it fully in the Photos app. Similarly, if the AI surfaced an entire album for you, interacting with it will open its entirety in Photos. Google adds that Android phones and tablets can "Drag and drop a photo from the Gemini on-screen overlay into another app."

These new Gemini and Photos app abilities are arriving in the model's Android app (tablets included); however, it's only for a "selected group of invited users." Google warns that not everyone will receive early access. Your prompts must be in English for this test. Elsewhere, if you do have access, you must ensure you're signed into Gemini with the same Google account as Photos.

Google will also give you the chance to connect your Photos content with Gemini when the time comes.

Gemini's Rediscovery

On the surface, what the company is highlighting seems extremely similar to its "Ask Photos" test currently in early access via Labs. In fact, Google directly mentions this in its recent support document, stating users can try and opt-in. Early Access in Labs kicked off in September with Google's confidence that Gemini could "understand the context" of your gallery.

The "Ask Photos" test involves a bit of Gemini's influence directly inside the Photos app, but Google's recent updates bring stronger integration via the AI's app on mobile.

With that in mind, perhaps it's a product of Google's huge Gemini app personalization update announcement. In that press release, the company mentioned the Photos app directly, stating users can ask for help/questions "based on your photos." It didn't mention any 2.0 Flash Thinking experimental influence, but it could be there under the hood.

What you need to know

• Google Photos finally brings "Undo backup" to Android devices, giving them more control over their storage.
• With this, users can delete all media files that are currently on Google Photos without making them vanish from the device itself.
•  iOS users received this feature back in December 2024.

Google Photos announced on Wednesday that it is finally rolling out an "undo backup" option to its mobile app on Android. This option showed up on iPhones late last year, and now it has made its way into Android devices.

In a support page detailing the change, Google stated that this option will now give users "more control over your backed up photos & videos." This essentially means that users can delete media files that have been backed up on the Google Photos app and not worry about it vanishing from the device itself, which was usually the case until now.

This Undo device backup feature will help users free up some storage space on their cloud without worrying about losing their media files. This is for when you “might not want all of your photos on your device backed up anymore.”

However, it is important to know that once you delete your photos on Google Photos, they will also be deleted from other spaces on the cloud, like shared albums, memories, and other albums you may have created within the app. Furthermore, photos and videos within the Locked folder will be deleted from the app.

That said, here's how you can free up some space on your Google Photos cloud with "undo device backup."

Open the Google Photos app on your phone > tap your Profile picture or initial > Photos settings > Backup > tap on Undo backup for this device.

You will then be prompted to check a box confirming the action. After that, hit Delete Google Photos backup. Once you do this, the app will no longer store the deleted photos, and backup to the device will be turned off automatically.

In other news, Google Photos is reportedly cutting off access to automatic syncing for digital photo frames like Aura and Cozyla. This move was made in an attempt to prevent third-party apps from accessing Google Photos, boosting user privacy.

What you need to know

• New Google Photos API changes are cutting off automatic syncing for some digital photo frames like Aura and Cozyla.
• Starting March 17, Aura users will need to manually add photos, and Cozyla users are in the same boat.
• Google announced these changes last September, and they officially take effect on March 31.

Google’s recent changes to how third-party apps can access Google Photos have thrown a wrench into things, causing headaches for a bunch of digital photo frame makers.

For years, digital photo frame companies have used Google Photos’ tools to easily pull in your pictures and keep them updated. But now, thanks to some recent tweaks to those tools, as The Verge reported, those handy connections are getting cut off, leaving a few digital photo frames in the lurch.

Google’s updates to its Photos API were meant to boost user privacy, but they’ve also disabled automatic syncing for some devices, like Aura and Cozyla frames. This means those once-smooth slideshows of your favorite pet album won’t update like they used to.

Before the API changes, Aura’s app let users browse their Photos library and pick what to display on their digital frames. The ‘auto-add’ feature made it even easier by automatically syncing new photos to selected albums.

However, starting March 17, Aura is pulling the plug on its automatic Google Photos sync, as Senior Director of Communications Jenisse Curry confirmed. That means you’ll have to manually upload photos through the Google Photos app if you want to share new pictures with family on your Aura frame.

Cozyla is jumping on the same bandwagon and ditching its Google Photos auto-sync too, as per a Reddit thread. So, if you’re rocking a Cozyla frame, get ready to switch to manual uploads for your photo updates.

Google first unveiled the news about its Photos API changes back in September, and now it's finally rolling out on March 31. According to Google, the updates aim to beef up user privacy.

While Google is phasing out this beloved feature, the tech giant is also working on new ways to let devices securely access your Photos library. Interestingly, it recently hinted at expanding Google Photos integration to more devices, like smart fridges and newer digital photo frames.

Google isn’t ditching digital photo frames altogether, but with backend changes in the works, existing frames could face some temporary or even long-term hiccups. The full details are still under wraps, so it’s a wait-and-see situation.

What you need to know

• Google highlights the return of automatic third-party photo content sharing via Partner Sharing.
• A post states this will return as a new "Include content from other Android apps" option within the Photos app's Partner Sharing settings.
• While Google originally removed it to help reduce "clutter," user feedback has pushed it to return the feature.

Google is rolling out an update for Photos that brings the return of a feature it dropped a few months ago.

In a community post, the Google Photos team highlighted the return of Partner Sharing for users on Android (via 9to5Google). As the company reiterates, Partner Sharing was an easy tool users could leverage to share pictures from third-party apps. Google originally removed it with the goal of "reducing clutter" and promoting "focus" on your partner's feed.

However, a wealth of user feedback has urged Google to return it to form.

Rolling out this week, Google says the Photos app will pick up a new setting where "screenshots or saved photos backed up from other apps" are shared with your partner automatically. The post states the "other apps" specification concerns apps like social media and the like. Users will retain a bit of privacy as Google says the "Include content from other Android apps" setting is disabled by default.

Additionally, users are said to always remain in control of what third-party photos are shared with partners. Once this arrives, if you've enabled it, your screenshots and pictures from other apps will be shown to your partner. If disabled at any time, those photos will disappear from their view.

Users voiced their opinions behind Google's removal of automatic screenshot/saved third-party pictures in Photos last November. Without much warning, users noticed their screenshots were no longer appearing on their partner's feed. Google hadn't communicated the change via a Photos app pop-up. Instead, the company quitely highlighted the change in a support document.

It wasn't until a couple of weeks later that Google properly announced the change, stating it was for the sake of "reducing clutter."

The original reports from Reddit stated downloads, screenshots, and photos from other Android apps weren't being shared. The Google Photos update rolling out this week with the new setting should return things to how it was.

Speaking of decluttering your app, Google's Collections tab in Photos was made for just that purpose. The view offered a themed view for all of your albums, like "People & Pets," "Places," and "Documents." During its arrival, the company said it wanted to "streamline" the experience for users looking to get into certain memories quickly. Elsewhere, Google kicked off its test in the U.S. for "Ask Photos," an AI-based feature that lets you talk to Gemini about your stored content.

The test kicked off last fall and, since then, the company has rolled out a slight UI redesign to give users more agency.

What you need to know

• Reimagine in Magic Editor lets users change their photos with generative AI, but previously, these were not watermarked as such.
• Starting this week, Google will use SynthID to digitally watermark images created with Reimagine.
• You can check if an image was AI-generated, either fully with Imagen or partially with Reimagine, using Google Lens or Circle to Search.

Google made waves when it introduced an AI-powered "Reimagine" tool for Google Photos alongside the Google Pixel 9 series last year. The feature let users create wild and wacky — sometimes misleading — AI-generated versions of their real photos. It blurred the lines between real and fake, which drew public criticism. Months later, Google announced it would begin watermaking photos that had been digitally altered with AI in Google Photos.

"Starting this week, Google Photos will begin using SynthID (a technology that embeds an imperceptible, digital watermark directly into AI-generated images, audio, text or video) to mark images edited with generative AI using Reimagine in Magic Editor," the company explained in a short post. "This helps people identify AI-generated content quickly and easily."

SynthID has appeared in other Google AI products in the past as a way to detect and identify AI-generated content. It works by embedding watermarking information directly into content, which isn't noticeable to the human eye but is easy to identify. It's designed to thwart out AI-generated text, music, images, videos, and more.

For example, images generated with the company's Imagen 3 text-to-image generator are already digitally-watermarked with SynthID. Notably, photos partially edited with Reimagine in Magic Editor weren't subject to the same SynthID watermarking techniques until now, making it hard for people to differentiate from real and fake.

Now, when users are concerned about whether an image has been edited with AI or not, they can use the "About this image" function in Google Lens or Circle to Search. After searching the image in Lens for Circle to Search, the features will provide any SynthID watermarking information present, as well as any necessary context. It can also show the image's metadata, which holds other clues as to whether a photo was edited with Reimagine in Google Photos.

This won't work for every image, however. "In some cases, edits made using Reimagine may be too small for SynthID to label and detect — like if you change the color of a small flower in the background of an image," the company explains.

Still, SynthID watermarking for images reimagined with Magic Editor should help prevent photos materially changed with AI from being passed off as the real thing. New creations with Reimagine will be digitally watermarked starting this week.

What you need to know

• Google was spotted rolling out an update for its enrolled testers experimenting with "Ask Photos" in the Photos app.
• The "Ask" tab introduced in the beta no longer drops users into Gemini, instead, it offers suggestions and other photo/video options with the AI.
• Google started its test of Ask Photos in September and its waitlist is still open for those interested.

It seems Google is rolling out an update for its AI-powered feature in Photos that makes it a little easier to manage.

As spotted by 9to5Google, the app's "Ask Photos" feature, which leverages Gemini, is picking up a slight UI rework for its testers. Update 7.14 is changing the newly introduced "Ask" tab at the bottom of the app. Tapping it displays a completely reconfigured page that offers more options rather than tossing you directly into a chat with Gemini. Now, users will see a slightly reduced search bar and an "Ask" button beside it.

Beneath this is a change — or, rather, a reversion — to what testers reportedly experienced at the beginning: a panel of suggestions. The latest experimental version adds a list of suggested actions users can ask the AI to perform. It seems that these suggestions are based on content within your collections and albums in the Photos app.

Gemini's "Ask Photos" can dig into your screenshots or a specific timespan of photos you've taken. Additionally, the AI can go into your videos and favorites if you desire.

If users are interested in chatting with Gemini directly, tapping the button produces a slightly retuned chat. Users will now have a clean UI, minus their profile icon at the top right. Under the star, there are reportedly a few suggestions to help users get started. The "Try Asking" section gives users ideas about their photos and it also goes off on a tangent with "Write a funny poem about me."

These changes are reportedly rolling out to all users enrolled in the "Ask Photos" test in Photos in the U.S.

We've been expecting "Ask Photos" to drop ever since Google teased it during I/O 2024. Several months later, in September, the feature finally arrived experimentally, opening its waitlist for interested testers in the U.S. One of the headliners for this feature was Gemini's ability to "understand the context" of your photo gallery. This means that the AI should be able to recognize the people you're looking for, as well as food and other objects/items.

In the event that Gemini gets it wrong (which is possible), Google encourages users to add additional details to help it.

Aside from surfacing memories for you, Ask Photos can also create a collage of images for you from a recent trip or from whenever.

The waitlist for Ask Photos is still in testing, meaning its waitlist is still open and ready to enter your email address.

What you need to know

• Google is starting to develop a feature in Photos that lets users decide which faces they'd like to "see more" of in Memories.
• The feature was reportedly spotted in version 7.12 of the Photos app and is placed alongside the "hide faces" option in a picture's description box.
• Google Photos is also opened its early waitlist for its upcoming "Ask Photos" feature.

Google is reportedly working on a way for people to surface the memories they'd love to see the most in Photos.

A discovery by notable X tipster AssembleDebug (Android Authority), a recent update for Photos reportedly contains details about an upcoming feature refresh. Per the tipster, Google is seemingly working on a way to make faces you'd love to see more of in Photos a little easier. According to the teardown, when viewing a picture in Photos, users can navigate to its information description containing the time it was taken, the lens used, and more.

There, users will also see small snapshots of the faces and people in the photo that the app recognizes.

The tipster's test shows that users may soon be able to long-press a person's icon and see a new pop-up menu. The app's code shows a new option: "Show more in memories." This button joins the "hide face from memories" option, an update the app picked up last year, per the publication.

What's unclear in this early test is if the "show more" option will deliver a pop-up menu like the "hide face" choice. Memories typically creates a collage of a user's photos that can be grouped. The post states that the "hide face" option lets users decide to show "less" of a person's face, but they will still show in grouped collections. However, the alternative involves not showing the person at all, even in grouped situations.

With the (happier) "show more" function in development, perhaps there will be more in store for users who want to relive certain memories of specific people. Maybe users can have the app create curated collages of a singular person or photos with both parties in them. We'll have to wait and see as more concrete details weren't readily available.

The good thing about this previous "show less" change is that it removes the long list of steps previously needed for a simple task. More importantly, there was never a way for users to show more of who they would like to see. The company pushed its new Memories view during the summer of 2023, alongside a few AI-powered tools. With generative AI at its heart, the tab "curates and organizes" your picture together, so long as they're similar. These similarities can include people, places, and occasions (like parties).

The AI will also generate a quick title, which users can fix later.

It's also worth mentioning that Google opened its early test waitlist for its AI-backed "Ask Photos" feature in September. This will bring even more of its software to the app by letting users converse with its AI model about content stored in their photo galleries.

What you need to know

• Google Photos is reportedly working on a "Quick Edits" feature that gives users a small assortment of editing tools before sharing.
• A tipster states that the Quick Edits menu offers a way to "Enhance" a photo and the same cropping features as the chunkier editing mode.
• Concerning editing, Google recently added a way to make it more clear to others if your photos were edited using its AI software.

Google has been spotted working on a way for users to quickly edit pictures in the Photos app before sharing.

The feature, dubbed "Quick Edits," was allegedly spotted by a tipster who reported its existence to Android Authority. According to its source, the option appeared on their Pixel 6 Pro in v7.10.0 of the app. The user states that the new menu, which surfaced when hitting the "Share" button in Photos, lets you quickly edit a singular photo before sending it.

The assortment of editing tools is much more limited in Quick Edits as the user only noticed a way to keep it "Original" alongside options to "Enhance" or crop it.

The "Original" option is straightforward as your photo will remain unaltered before sending. However, the "Enhanced" option seems to reconfigure the photo's colors. The example shows that the colors are much richer and defined with much deeper shadows in the areas void of light. Overall, "enhanced" pictures appear brighter and a little clearer. This also seems very reminiscent of the "auto-enhance" AI-backed feature the publication picked up on in October.

Of course, this is a quicker alternative to what users would find in the app's proper editing tools.

Quick Edits in Photos lets users see the difference by long-pressing the picture "to see original."

The post states that the cropping feature is the same as found in the main editing tab, so users will see similar tools there. The user informed the publication that this feature appears when selecting multiple photos, as well, meaning users can likely edit a batch of pictures (if they desire) before sending them off.

Mishaal Rahman writing for the publication states that, aside from this informant, there haven't been any other reports of "Quick Edits." There are no clear signs about when it could hit more Pixel devices, but you should stay alert for it.

Curiously, Google reworked its Android 14 sharing screen earlier this year on several Pixel phones. When sharing, users were given a quick preview of the image in question with two initial rows of places to send the picture, which involved contacts and apps. However, this revamped menu gave users a "Modify" button to add more pictures to the message. Also, a pencil icon lets users hop into an editing area to spruce up the photos before sending them.

With this Quick Edits function now spotted, this quick moment to fix things might preceed this new share screen.

Elsewhere, Google added more awareness to a picture's details page so others know if it was edited using AI. The company has several AI-based tools under its belt, like Magic Eraser, and it will now credit "Google AI" if you're using such features.

Welcome to Ask Jerry, where we talk about any and all the questions you might have about the smart things in your life. I'm Jerry, and I have spent the better part of my life working with tech. I have a background in engineering and R&D and have been covering Android and Google for the past 15 years.

I'm also really good at researching data about everything — that's a big part of our job here at Android Central — and I love to help people (another big part of our job!). If you have questions about your tech, I'd love to talk about them.

Email me at askjerryac@gmail.com, and I'll try to get things sorted out. You can remain anonymous if you like, and we promise we're not sharing anything we don't cover here.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Why are old duplicate photos in my Google Drive folders and what should I do with them?

Jeremy asks:

I just noticed that Google seems to have duplicate copies of my whole photo library, which, I'm guessing, is a waste of space. There's a whole directory in My Drive that seems to be a duplicate of old family photos I scanned years ago, sorted by year and, I guess, not really needed.

What's going on here? Does this count against my Google storage limit? Most importantly, can I delete all this?

Hi Jeremy! You've stumbled across a secret Google feature that gives you a look at what sets Google apart when it comes to online services: the unintended, multilayered problem.

On a serious note, this happens (or happened, as we'll see later) to some folks who used Google Photos in its early days but didn't affect others. The short answer to your questions: you're seeing duplicates because Google Photos stores its files in a hidden folder in your shared Google storage. Yes, it counts against your storage the same way any files you purposefully uploaded to Google Drive, and you can delete the folder(s) from Google Drive after you verify you have copies in the Google Photos app. For a discussion of the mess, read on!

Not everyone sees these old duplicate files. At some point, Google changed how Photos stores its data, but it still is part of your overall storage space provided by Google. Before this, you could see your Google Photos storage in Drive if you knew where and how to look for it, but it was intended to be hidden.

During the transition, some people had folders duplicated while the way they were stored changed. I've heard this has to do with specific metadata, how the files were added to Photos, or what device was used to upload them. These theories could be correct, or they could be 100% wrong; regardless, it happened, and when it happened, the folders became visible like any other folder in Drive.

These folders are no longer associated with Google Photos and that means they are duplicated elsewhere in a way you can't (easily) find them. It also means they are taking up space.

You have a limited amount of space associated with your Google account. You can pay to have more if you need it, or you can manage your stored and saved files so you don't reach the limit.

These duplicate folders can be safely deleted once you've double-checked to make sure the photos are also stored in the Google Photos app. Do not delete them until you have checked. Never trust anything without verifying it for yourself.

One thing you might want to look at before you delete anything is the quality of the photo being stored, especially if you used to have an original Pixel or a Pixel 2.

It used to be that if you had a Pixel phone, your photos were stored at full quality without any cost to your shared storage allotment. Other photos had their quality reduced; it was still high-quality and is likely good enough for anything other than trying to have physical prints made, but there is a difference.

There is a chance that these "duplicate" photos would be full quality and the photos in Google Photos are not. This situation happened to me when I got hit with the weird duplication bug/mess/Googleism. A bunch of photos I took with the first Pixel phone were stored in full resolution and quality in my Google Drive but the "copies" in Google Photos were not.

It's up to you to decide if you want or need these larger-sized files (I didn't), but if you don't know and don't check, you can't decide.

One last thing to note — this happened to a lot of people, and it's probably worth checking if you are one of them and don't know it. Just open your Google Drive and look through all the stuff that's stored there. If you see folders full of pictures, this is probably why.

There are a handful of perks that come with using Google Photos as your default gallery app on the best Android phones. It's a gallery app, cloud storage service, and photo editor all-in-one. One of the great things about Google Photos is that it includes a Memories feature that automatically turns your photo library into a digital scrapbook. You can relive past experiences, remember trips, and more.

There's even a dedicated page in the Google Photos app for Memories. But what if you don't want to see a certain person or pet in Memories? Luckily, you can curate who shows up in Memories and who doesn't, and this guide will explain how.

How you can remove people and pets from Memories

To prevent unwanted people and pets from showing up in your Memories, you can tweak your Google Photos app preferences. You can choose people to Show less, which will stop them from individually showing up in your Memories, but may still show them in group photos. Or, you can add people to the Blocked list, which will prevent them from showing up in Memories of any kind. Here's how to do it.

1. Open the Google Photos app.

2. Tap your profile picture to open up a menu.

3. Then, press Photos settings.

4. Tap Preferences.

5. Next, press Memories.

6. Select Hide people.

7. You'll now see a list of all the people you've selected to Show less or added to Blocked. To add a person to the list, press the + button, pick a person, and tap Done.

From then on, any person or pet you add to Blocked will no longer appear in Memories. Anyone added to Show less will only appear if they're in a group photo with others. You can always edit your Show less and Blocked list by returning to this page in Photos settings.

Why you might want to remove people and pets from Google Photos Memories

Usually, it's fun to be reminded of good memories, but our Google Photos libraries aren't full of good times entirely. They might include photos of an ex-partner, someone you've had a falling out with, or a person or pet that has passed away. That's why Google Photos lets you pick and choose who does (and, more importantly, doesn't) appear in Memories.

What you need to know

• In a recent change, Partner Sharing in the Google Photos app no longer supports photos that originated from a third-party Android app.
• Google confirmed the shift in an update to a support document made sometime in the last month.
• The change seems to also affect unedited screenshots, and Google didn't explain why Partner Sharing now works differently.

Users picked up on a major change to the way Partner Sharing works in Google Photos this month, and now Google confirmed the shift in an updated support document. Partner Sharing will no longer automatically share photos that come from "other apps on Android," according to the document. The confirmation was first spotted by TechIssuesToday, which noted that the support document was updated sometime in the last month based on Wayback Machine archives.

Partner Sharing is a convenient, and automatic, way to share photos with someone you trust, like a family member or significant other. Using this feature, you can choose which photos are automatically shared with your partner. For example, photos can be shared if they include a specific person, or were taken after a specific date.

Additionally, you can share all photos with a partner if you'd like. Since the feature was introduced in 2017, the All Photos option really included every photo, but there are new limitations. Now, there's a disclaimer in the Partner Sharing support document reading: "Tip: Photos from other apps on Android aren't shared with your partner account."

Reddit users spotted the change about two weeks ago, discovering that certain metadata determines whether a photo is shared or not. Downloads, screenshots, and photos from other Android apps won't be sent to another person with Partner Sharing.

This doesn't change if you alter the photo's origin in the Google Photos app, like removing the "screenshot" badge. However, screenshots will be sent through Partner Sharing if they've been edited in Google Photos.

Screenshots not sharing through Partner Share from r/googlephotos

Google hasn't shared the reasoning behind the changes to Partner Sharing. The move could be to protect user privacy, as some users might want to share their photos but not their downloads, screenshots, or pictures from other apps. With that being said, there are already ways to customize which photos are shared with Partner Sharing, so it's puzzling that Google doesn't give users the option to share photos originating from other apps.

At the moment, it does not appear that Google is communicating this change directly to users in the Photos app. Though a new Updates page in the Photos app now exists for changes like this, Partner Sharing users apparently haven't received a message.

What you need to know

• Google highlighted the rollout of its "Updates" page, which replaces the "Sharing" button in the Photos app.
• The new page will inform users of new shared albums, new photos, memory, and conversation/group conversation updates.
• The feature is rolling out for Android and iOS users; however, we're still waiting on the app's AI-backed features, "Ask Photos."

Google is rolling out an update for its Photos app to help users stay in the loop with all the latest happenings.

As detailed in a community post, Google is rolling the new "Updates" page in Photos for all users on Android and iOS. This new page is being touted as a shared, social hub for people who share photo albums with one another. Accessible via a new "bell icon," users will find an Updates page that places organization and what's current first.

Google states it hopes the Updates page can "foster collaboration and connection." This is designed to be a user's one-stop-shop for updates on shared albums and conversations/group conversations. Regarding the latter, the post states users will be notified if they're added to a new conversation or if another user sends a new photo. All conversations are accessible via the Photos app settings.

For shared albums, Google says its Updates area will inform you of new ones and display them in the order received. Moreover, if another user adds a new picture to a shared album, an alert will be sent so you can check it out. However, users can hop into their Collections tab to view their shared albums without seeing ongoing conversations and "other activities."

Other information in this new page include partner sharing, memory, and storage updates.

Google highlights the "chronological" order of the Updates page. Albums received/shared will be displayed by "today" first, before diving into "yesterday, this week, this month" and more.

As previously stated, the Updates page in Photos is rolling out today (Nov 8). The company states that users can continue to check for an update "over the coming weeks."

Speaking of the "Collections" tab, Google rolled out the "Library" tab revamp for the app over the summer. Instead of that old carousel, users were presented with a more organized grid for their cloud-stored albums. The company also shifted the Locked Folder button down into a list, instead of being displayed as a larger pill-shaped button up top.

With the "Updates" page arriving, we're still waiting on the official rollout of the app's "Ask Photos" feature. Google Photos will soon let users conversate with an AI to discover photos they're having trouble locating. "Ask Photos" leverages the company's AI model Gemini to process your "descriptive query" and (hopefully) find what you're looking for. Google highlighted the feature in September, stating users can join its waitlist to try it out before it launches.

What you need to know

• Google announced that it will roll out a new AI note in the details page of images in the Photos app.
• If someone has used features like Magic Editor or Magic Eraser, this AI note will inform people of its use and it will credit "Google AI."
• This feature is slated to begin "next week," but Google says even its non-generative AI features are included.

Awareness about what's genuine or AI-generated is taking center stage for Google and your photos.

Today (Oct 24), Google announced that it's giving users more information about whether or not a photo has been edited with its AI software. This move is tucked behind the company's interest in being more transparent with its users exchanging photos on its platform. Google states, "starting next week," the Photos app will detail if an image had been previously edited with one of its AI tools.

When surfacing "more information" about a photo, the bottom of that page will contain an "AI Info" box. That space will "credit" Google's AI, so users know its Gen AI tools had a hand in the creation they're viewing.

This AI note will detail all of Google's useful photography functions, even the ones it deems "non-generative." Those features include images taken with "Add Me" or "Best Take." Google states that while these don't use AI to alter the photo, it will still inform others that some form of technical wizardry was used to capture it.

Users should be aware that these AI notes will be placed on photos edited using Google's Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, and Zoom Enhance.

Thanks to Google following the IPTC's standards (International Press Telecommunications Council), those editing tools already have metadata to indicate Gen AI use. However, this urge for transparency makes it more visible to every user.

Users may be in for more of this "transparency" in the future. Google teased "this work is not done, and we’ll continue gathering feedback." The company also mentioned it would continue to look at alternative solutions and methods to increase transparency about Gen AI creations. Moreover, Google cites its AI Principals' guidance as to why it's taking these extra steps to be more "responsible."

We've seen something similar to this announced with another of Google's platforms: YouTube. In March, YouTube detailed its new "altered or synthetic" content disclosure that all creators are required to fill out when uploading videos. YouTube states that if any portion of their video is altered with AI tools, their video will receive a label to inform viewers.

Creators cannot remove this label after disclosing that their video has been altered using digital means. However, content creators don't have to worry if they've used to generate captions or scripts for their videos.

What you need to know

• Early adopters in the U.S. are starting to get access to Google Photos' "Ask Photos" feature, with reports that the rollout is already happening for some.
• The AI search is currently limited to a select group of users but works across all versions of Google Photos since it’s server-side.
• It replaces the current Search tab, but you still need to kick off searches through Ask Photos.

Google Photos is rolling out a Gemini-powered update that could totally take over how you remember your life’s moments.

In May, Google introduced "Ask Photos," a new feature in Google Photos powered by Gemini AI. It lets you search for specific images just by asking in plain language, revamping how you browse your photo collection.

Now, it looks like early adopters are getting access to the feature now, with 9to5Google reporting that Ask Photos is already rolling out to a lucky few.

Right now, though, the AI-powered search feature is available to a limited group of U.S. users from the waitlist. Apparently, it's rolled out on the server side, so it works regardless of the version of Google Photos you're using.

As the name hints, Ask Photos lets you use descriptive queries to find specific photos and videos in your collection, leading to more precise search results. Thanks to Google’s Gemini AI, this feature picks up on the context of images in your gallery, including details like people and food preferences.

Ask Photos essentially supplants the current Search tab in the app's bottom bar. Once you give Google access to the required data, this feature will work smoothly with Photos on all your devices. While the classic search option will still be available, you’ll need to kick things off with Ask Photos to use it.

Though it’s mainly built for questions about people, Ask Photos also serves as a handy travel buddy. It taps into your visual history to help remember important details like hotel names and license plates. For instance, it can pinpoint where you took those camping gear photos or even recognize dishes from your restaurant snaps.

Besides answering your questions, Google previously mentioned that Ask Photos can help with various tasks, like creating a quick recap of your latest vacation or picking the best family photos for a shared album.

Google Photos has come a long way from just being a simple photo organizer to becoming a smart AI-powered memory hub. With the launch of 'Ask Photos,' the search features have taken a big leap forward. While this new feature is great for lots of users, some folks might find it a bit too nosy for their liking.

What you need to know

• Google announced that "Ask Photos" in the Photos app has now entered early access and users can begin signing up for its waitlist.
• Ask Photos leverages Gemini to discover content stored in your gallery when given a descriptive query.
• Google Photos is also rolling out an improved search experience for Android and iOS users.

Google details some new things stable app users and testers can expect from Photos.

As part of Google Labs' AI testing environment, the company states in a post that users can get their hands on "Ask Photos." This new feature in Google Photos lets users leverage the AI model Gemini for questions about their stored content. The post adds that Gemini will "understand the context" of your photo gallery, meaning it should recognize "important" people, food, and more.

Users can get descriptive during their queries to Gemini in Photos. Google's provided example shows a user asking about what they ate at a hotel in a specific town (Stanely). After a brief moment, Ask Photos will scour your photos before surfacing what it believes fits your question.

Google states Ask Photos can even understand items in your content like camping gear. However, the AI search could get things wrong, in which case users are encouraged to offer "extra clues or details" to help it.

Aside from searching for a singular photo, Ask Photos can create a collection of images from a recent trip. For example, Google says a user could ask "what were the top 10 things we saw in Idaho." Ask Photos will go through that trip before surfacing what could fit your query's criteria.

It's worth mentioning that some of your questions given to Ask Photos may be taken by Google to train the AI. The company states it will protect your privacy by "disconnecting" the query from your account, ensuring your anonymity during review.

Users interested can join the waitlist for Ask Photos today (September 5) and see if they can snag a spot.

Elsewhere, today's update for Google Photos brings an improved search experience for Android and iOS users. The post highlights the app's ability to understand "everyday language" when searching for a photo. Some examples include "Alice and me laughing" or "Emma painting in the backyard."

Google has included sorting options such as relevancy or by date to help users find what they're looking for as the app turns up results.

What you need to know

• Google confirmed in a new report that consumers cannot chase repairment options for the Pixel Watch 3.
• Users must contact Support for a replacement device and are also encouraged to grab the Preferred Care insurance plan to cover damages.
• The original Pixel Watch and the Pixel Watch 2 were not offered official Google repair services and a teardown video showcased its self-repair nightmare.

Consumers are still left without proper repair options for Google's Pixel Watch series — even with the third iteration.

The Pixel Watch 3 offers a unique glass-domed design for its watch face that makes it prone to damage. The folks at Android Authority inquired about repair options for Google's latest smartwatch, but the answer wasn't favorable.

A Google representative stated that if your Pixel Watch 3 comes under harm, you can "the Google Pixel Watch Customer Support Team to check your replacement options."

As the publication notes, this information doesn't bode well for folks interested in repairing the device instead of grabbing a new one. An option like that would help consumers elongate the life span of their device, especially for an accidental scratch or a funky crown.

However, Google stated those interested in purchasing a Pixel Watch 3 are encouraged to grab Preferred Care. This device insurance will cover damages received, including "out-of-warranty issues." It's worth mentioning that if you are chasing a replacement device with the insurance, Google will ask for $49 in service fees.

Not that we were holding our breath, but Google hasn't offered repair options for its smartwatch since the beginning. Users had taken to Reddit to voice their displeasure as the only option then (and now) was to replace the device completely. Moreover, the idea of Google repairing the watch or doing it at home has previously proven difficult.

Self-repair part provider iFixit conducted a teardown of the Pixel Watch and showcased its sheer lack of repairability. Cracking the screen and attempting to pop on a new one was tedious and there was no way to replace its crown or button. 

Google's lack of repair options continued with the Pixel Watch 2 as it (once again) encouraged consumers to purchase the Preferred Care insurance plan.

Google launched the Pixel Watch 3 on August 13 during its hardware event. The device debuted packed with loads of health and fitness tools that should have runners feeling pretty good — and maybe a little depressed. Nevertheless, the watch is offered in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm with an estimated 36 hours of battery time with "Battery Saver" mode enabled.

What you need to know

• Google has started rolling out its "Collections" tab in Photos, which replaces the old library option.
• The tab swaps the "Photos on device" carousel for a folder and pops in more organization for cloud-stored photos in an "Album."
• This Photos update (once again) shifts the Locked Folder by dropping it down to the bottom of the Collections tab, following user feedback.

The previously discovered "Collections" redesign for Google Photos is rolling out, bringing major changes to how your photos are organized.

As spotted by 9to5Google, Google announced its new Collections tab, which lets users "access private and shared albums, all under one roof." Now, Photos offers an Albums folder containing both local and cloud folders of files, personal and shared.

Users will also find a "Sort by" option in this new Albums folder. The publication found that the old library "Photos on device" carousel has been replaced with a new "On this device" folder.

Instead of swiping horizontally for memories captured via your camera, apps, or screenshots, "On this device" expands into a grid view of available albums.

Google added that it wants to "streamline" the way users rediscover their content with this new UI redesign. Collections has Favorites and Trash folders on the top, followed by other themed folders like "People & Pets," "Places," and "Documents." The Photos' Locked Folder will no longer have its pill-shaped button in the open.

Users can now find their sensitive items listed at the bottom of the Collections page. Lastly, the Search tab has reportedly gained a list view for recent queries and memory suggestions.

The "Suggested" area in the Collections tab drops the Utilities folders. Users will have to search elsewhere for options like "Free up Space," which can be found by tapping their account icon.

Google Photos' new Collections tab to replace Library is rolling out today (August 8) across Android and iOS. The company states that users should see the update soon, and if not, check back "over the coming weeks."

What's interesting about the subtle change to the locked folder in Photos is Google made it a bit easier to access early in July. The company removed the necessity of digging through your Utilities folder to find your locked contents. After the update, the user could find their locked folder as an option in the suggestion section alongside their favorites and archives.

However, as the publication notes, it seems this shift (again) with the Collections tab was due to user feedback.

In other news, we're still waiting on Google to roll out "Ask Photos" powered by Gemini. The tool will let users find a specific photo in their collection of memories through text-based queries to the AI model.

What you need to know

• Google Photos' Locked Folder is now just a few taps away in the "Library" tab, making it easier to find.
• Previously hidden in the Utilities section, the Locked Folder now sits alongside Favorites, Archive, and Trash in the Library tab.
• This change was first spotted in version 6.89 of the Android app and is being rolled out to iOS users as well.

Google Photos is updating to make your Locked Folder easier to find—now just a few taps away from the "Library" tab.

Before, you had to dig through the Utilities section in Google Photos to find your Locked Folder, which was a bit of a hassle. Now, with the latest update, this hidden section is right up front in the Library tab, sitting alongside Favorites, Archive, and Trash. This change was first spotted by 9to5Google in version 6.89 of the Android app, and it's also making its way to iOS users.

This update also means that Locked Folder has taken the place of the Utilities button at the top of your Library tab. Google has already updated its support documentation to show the new setup.

For the uninitiated, Locked Folder is a secure vault for your sensitive media. It's password-protected and hidden from the main gallery and other apps, keeping your designated photos and videos safe. However, it used to be a bit tricky to find, buried deep in the menu system and requiring several steps to access.

The goal of this update is to make accessing Locked Folder faster and more convenient. The web version of Photos already had the Locked Folder in the navigation drawer, and now the mobile apps are catching up with this streamlined design.

Meanwhile, the Utilities section has been revamped, with most of its features now available by clicking the "+" icon near your profile picture. This shortcut lets you create new albums, share with a partner, and import photos from other sources.

This seemingly small update is set to spotlight the Locked Folder, catching the eye of users who might not have known about or used this secure storage feature before. Since we frequently share our phones with people we trust, but not necessarily all our information, adopting this security tool is a smart move for everyone.