Google appears poised to revisit its recent redesign of the Photos app, a move that comes in response to user feedback expressing concerns about usability. The overhaul, which was introduced last year for Pixel users, aimed to streamline navigation and showcase AI-driven features. However, the changes were met with significant criticism from the user community, particularly regarding the redesigned editor.
In light of this feedback, Google is reportedly planning to reintegrate elements of the previous editor interface. Key modifications include the reinstatement of direct access to essential tools such as Crop, Adjust, and Filters, which had been relocated under a “Tools” button in the current design. The forthcoming update will return these features to a scrollable carousel at the bottom of the editor, effectively reducing the number of steps required for photo editing and allowing for one-tap access to frequently used functionalities.
Moreover, the dedicated “Crop” menu will be reintroduced as a unified category, reversing the previous decision to separate it into various individual features.
There are also visual refinements and a more compact input method
Beyond the functional adjustments, Google Photos is set to enhance the visual language of its image editor. The update will feature Action labels enclosed in pill-shaped borders, providing clearer visibility of the currently selected tool. Additionally, to optimize vertical space, the previously large “Help Me Edit” input prompt will be replaced with a more compact “Ask” button.
In a further innovation, Google is testing a new “Explore” tab on the welcome screen of the Photos application. This feature will present a vertically scrolling, TikTok-style feed of personal videos, generated by AI based on factors such as location, people, or content. The new Explore feed will complement the existing Memories section, enriching the user experience.
This update is currently being rolled out to a select group of users across various app versions, with a broader release expected in the coming days.
