Google Photos App Update: Say Goodbye to the “Things” Carousel

Google has quietly made a subtle change to its Google Photos app for Android and iOS users. The familiar “Things” carousel in the Search tab has been removed, paving the way for the upcoming introduction of “Ask Photos” this summer, a new feature previewed at I/O 2024.

Previously, the Search tab in Google Photos featured four carousels: People & pets, Places, Documents, and Things. The “Things” carousel was a convenient way to group and explore photos by categories like Selfies, Skylines, Concerts, and more. Users could easily browse these categories directly within the carousel or access the full list by clicking on “View all.”

While some users may miss the convenience of the Things carousel for casual browsing, fear not! The categories are still accessible by simply searching for “Things” within the app, leading users to the familiar full-page grid view.

According to 9to5Google, this removal could be part of a broader plan to update the Google Photos interface as it gears up for the launch of “Ask Photos.” This suggests that Google is working towards streamlining the app’s features and layout. Keep in mind that the version showcased at I/O 2024 is not final – Google is still experimenting with changes like revamping the “Collections” feature while retaining tabs like “Library.”

Although it may seem like a minor adjustment, removing the Things carousel signifies a shift in how users engage with Google Photos. As Ask Photos and future updates roll out, users can expect fresh ways to search, organize, and rediscover their photos. It will be intriguing to see how users embrace these changes and what other enhancements Google has up its sleeve for its photo management platform.