Google Photos on Android just got a big update. It has changed how you use its smart AI editing tools. They removed those cool gesture-based controls. So, no more swiping magic onto your pictures!
Instead, Google Photos now uses a new menu system. This update affects popular features. Think about Magic Eraser, Portrait Blur, Sky, and Color Pop.
These tools previously let you use gestures directly on the screen. Now, you will find them in a new menu. This change is rolling out with app version 6.85.
I find this move quite interesting, actually. It’s a different way to interact with your photos. Are you ready for more tapping instead of swiping? Let’s dive in.
Goodbye Gestures, Hello Menus in Google Photos
The old way was pretty slick, right? You could tap and rub your screen. Poof!
Unwanted objects disappeared with Magic Eraser. Or you could easily blur backgrounds for that perfect portrait look. Those quick gestures made editing feel super intuitive. I personally loved the speed.
Now, things are different. Google has moved these AI features. You won’t find them by just tapping or swiping anymore.
From what I’ve seen…
The update centralizes them into a new menu system. This means you need to navigate a bit more. It feels like an extra step now for some tasks. This is a big change for daily users like us, you know?
When you open an image to edit, you will see new tabs. These tabs are called “Suggest” and “Create.” The AI features are now tucked inside these tabs. This aims to make the editing options more organized. But it might slow you down if you were used to the old gestures.
For example, earlier, you might just tap to use Magic Eraser. Now, you tap ‘Edit’. Then you go to the ‘Tools’ tab.
Next, you select ‘Magic Eraser’. It’s not complicated, but it’s not as instant. It adds a few extra clicks. This is just how tech evolves, I guess.
This update is live for many Android users already. Make sure your Google Photos app is updated to version 6.85 or newer. If not, head to the Play Store. Get the latest Google Photos update here.
Why the Big Change? What’s Next for AI Editing?
So, why did Google make this shift? My take is that they are clearing the deck. They are likely making room for more advanced AI tools.
As Google keeps adding new smart features, a centralized menu makes sense. It helps keep everything tidy. Imagine too many gestures crowding the screen!
When I tested this myself…
This new system can hold many more AI options. Future AI features can easily slot into these “Suggest” or “Create” tabs.
It gives Google a clean canvas for innovation. This is important as AI in photography keeps getting better. For more on Google Photos and its history, check out its Wikipedia page.
Google’s focus is clearly on integrating AI deeper into everything. This change shows they want a more structured approach. It allows them to roll out more powerful editing capabilities later.
This includes tools like Generative AI. These can do amazing things with your photos. So, while we lose quick gestures, we might gain more powerful AI tools soon. It’s a trade-off, isnt it?
Many users have already seen these changes. Some miss the old gestures. Others appreciate the new organization.
It always takes time to get used to new things. But Google often has a bigger plan for these updates. It’s all about making your photos look their best with minimal effort, eventually. That’s the hope, anyway!
Overall, this update is a big step for Google Photos. It signals a new era for AI photo editing on your phone.
Get ready to explore the new menus. Tell me, what do you think of this update? Do you miss the old gestures?