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Google Photos Updates User Interface with New Floating Toolbar, Revised Editor, and Explores Vertical Video Feed

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Google Photos Rolls Out Major Updates: New Toolbar, Editor Revisions, and TikTok-like 'Explore' Feature

Google Photos is implementing several updates across its application, including the introduction of a new floating toolbar for iOS, revisions to its photo editor interface, and the testing of an "Explore" feature designed as a vertical video feed.

These changes are rolling out in phases, with some currently available to specific user groups or devices.

New Floating Toolbar Enhances iOS Navigation

Google Photos has updated its user interface on iOS devices by introducing a new floating toolbar. This design replaces the previous bottom bar and is available on iOS version 7.63 of the application.

The toolbar is pill-shaped and positioned to float above the displayed image content.

Its design aims to enhance content visibility by remaining present during scrolling while occupying less screen space.

It integrates key navigation options: "Photos," "Collections," and "Create." On its right side, a Floating Action Button (FAB) provides access to "Search" or "Ask" functionalities.

According to Material 3 Expressive guidelines, floating toolbars are intended for frequently used actions relevant to the current page, rather than primary navigation. Google has previously utilized similar floating toolbars for navigation in applications such as Google Chat and within the Google Photos Albums section. A timeline for the rollout of this update to Android devices has not been specified.

Photo Editor Interface Revisions Respond to User Feedback

Google is reversing some modifications to the photo editor within the Photos app, following user feedback regarding a previous redesign.

A refined editor interface is currently being tested, which restores certain elements to their prior positions and reduces the prominence of some AI-powered photo editing features.

Key changes in this updated editor interface include:

  • Controls for tools such as Crop, Adjust, and Filters are returning to the bottom of the editor for one-tap access.
  • The dedicated Crop menu, which was previously removed, is being reintroduced.
  • Quick-access buttons for Enhance, Dynamic, and AI Enhance features may be retained.
  • The "Help Me Edit" field is being replaced with a more compact "Ask" button. This button, similar to YouTube's interface, opens an input box upon tap.
  • Labels for actions are now enclosed in a pill-shaped perimeter that highlights when selected.

This updated editor interface is currently rolling out to a limited number of users, specifically on Pixel 7 devices running Google Photos app version 7.67.0.882706237.

'Explore' Feature Introduces TikTok-like Vertical Video Feed

In parallel with other updates, Google is testing a new "Explore" option within the Photos app. This feature is positioned on the welcome screen alongside "Memories."

The "Explore" option generates a vertically scrolling feed of videos, resembling the format of TikTok.

It is anticipated that Google may use artificial intelligence to curate this feed, with selections potentially based on factors such as video content, location, or individuals featured in the videos. This "Explore" feature is also in a limited testing phase with a small user group.