Google Photos has rolled out a significant redesign for its app on iOS, introducing a cleaner and more streamlined interface with notable changes. The update, part of version 7.9, brings a revamped bottom navigation bar, reduces the number of menu options, and replaces the once-prominent ‘Memories’ tab with a new ‘Moments’ tab, which is now located within the Collections section.
This redesign aligns with Google’s broader efforts to simplify the user experience while leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance features. The changes have sparked curiosity among users accustomed to the earlier layout and functionality of Google Photos.
With the latest update to version 7.9 of Google Photos for iOS, the Memories tab has officially been replaced by a newly introduced ‘Moments’ feature. However, the placement of Moments has shifted, moving it away from the home page to a sub-menu under the Collections tab.
The revamped bottom navigation bar now consists of just three tabs:
Photos – The primary space for users to browse their photo library.
Collections – Housing features like Moments and other organized content.
Search – Offering tools to find specific images or videos quickly.
Despite its relocation, the Moments feature retains its core functionality. Using advanced AI algorithms, Moments curates a personalized collection of significant photos and videos for each user. It also allows users to search for specific moments, add captions, and easily share these collections with others, enhancing the overall experience.
Some sources confirmed the arrival of the Moments tab through hands-on experience with the new Google Photos for iOS update.
Google Photos has consistently introduced new features to enhance user experience. Recently, the app added an Updates feature on both Android and iOS platforms, creating a dedicated feed on the home page.
This feed consolidates incoming activities, including:
Updates to shared albums.
Notifications from ongoing conversations.
Highlights of user memories.
Information about storage usage and recommendations.
Earlier in August, Google replaced the Library tab with Collections, another step toward simplifying navigation and organizing user content more effectively.
While the changes aim to enhance usability, some iOS users have expressed mixed reactions to the removal of the familiar Memories tab from the home screen. However, the addition of Moments, backed by AI technology, promises an intuitive way to relive cherished memories and organize them better.
Android users have already seen the rollout of similar features, emphasizing Google’s commitment to creating a unified experience across platforms.
The Google Photos update for iOS underscores Google’s focus on streamlining its apps while integrating intelligent features. The new Moments tab, coupled with recent updates like the Activity feed and Collections, provides users with enhanced ways to organize, share, and revisit their content. As Google continues refining its apps, users can look forward to more innovations that balance simplicity and functionality.
Here are some of the latest Google Photos updates:
Recent Updates:
Improved Search: Google Photos has enhanced its search capabilities, making it easier to find specific photos and videos.1 You can now search by keywords, objects, people, or even specific locations.
Ask Photos: This experimental feature allows you to ask questions about your photos, such as "Show me photos of my dog" or "Find pictures from my trip to Paris.
AI-Enhanced Editing: Google Photos continues to leverage AI to enhance your photos automatically.4 This includes features like auto-color correction, noise reduction, and object removal.
Shared Albums: Google Photos has introduced a new "Updates" section in shared albums.6 This feature allows you to easily track changes, comments, and notifications within shared albums.
Past Updates:
Enhanced Photo Organization: Google Photos has improved its photo organization features, making it easier to find and manage your photos.8 You can now create albums, add labels, and search by date, location, or people.
Advanced Photo Editing: Google Photos offers a range of powerful editing tools, including filters, adjustments, and cropping.9 You can also use AI-powered tools to enhance your photos automatically.
Video Editing: Google Photos allows you to create and edit videos directly within the app.11 You can trim videos, add music, and apply filters to create personalized video stories.
Google Photos Memories: This feature automatically creates personalized memories based on your photos and videos.13 You can relive special moments and share them with friends and family.14
To stay up-to-date with the latest features and updates, you can check the Google Photos blog or the official Google Photos app.