Google Photos replaces Library tab with Collections: What's new?
Google Photos has introduced a new feature named Collections, replacing the existing Library tab. This update is designed to streamline content discovery for users. The Collections feature will serve as a central location for all user albums, including both private and shared ones. It also introduces dedicated folders for various categories such as people and pets, documents, and places.
Collections supports upcoming Ask Photos assistant
The introduction of the Collections feature, aligns with Google's upcoming launch of an AI-powered assistant called Ask Photos. This new tool, set to debut later this year, will be powered by Gemini. In addition to the Collections update, Google Photos has also revamped its search tab. The previous image tiles have been replaced with a list of suggested categories such as Screenshots, Selfies, and Menus.
Gradual rollout and user navigation
The Collections feature is currently being rolled out to all Google Photos users on Android and iOS platforms. However, it may take several weeks before the feature is accessible on all devices. Users can navigate to the Collections tab and tap on Albums, to switch between different views like "All," "Shared with me," and "My albums."
Changes in folder display and removal of utilities
The "Favorites" and "Trash" folders will be prominently displayed at the top of the Collection view. However, Google says the remaining two tiles "may rotate based on the items you navigate to the most." In response to user feedback, Locked Folders will no longer be suggested at the top of this view. The Utilities folder is being removed entirely from Google Photos. However, the tools it contained are not disappearing but are being relocated within the app.
Relocation of tools and new access points
Users can now create a Locked Folder by scrolling to the bottom of Collections. Options for importing images and creating albums, collages, and highlight videos can be accessed by tapping the "+" symbol. Meanwhile, facilities like freeing up space on the device, and managing photo frames now require users to tap their Google Photos account profile. This change ensures that despite the removal of the Utilities folder, all its functions remain accessible within the app through new access points.
