Google responded to user criticism about the AI search feature in the Google Photos app. It announced a new option to return to the traditional search experience within the app.
The company launched the Ask Photos feature in the US in 2024. This feature uses the Gemini AI model. It lets users search photos using natural language. They can ask complex questions, like describing people or events in photos.
Complaints About Accuracy and Speed
However, some users complained that the Ask Photos feature still had issues. The main problems were slow results and poor accuracy in finding photos. This was compared to the traditional search method.
Google temporarily stopped rolling out the feature last summer. This was to fix response speed issues. This happened after many user feedback comments.
New Toggle Button
With the new update, a direct toggle button will appear in the app's search page. This button lets users easily switch between AI-powered search and the classic search experience.
Google previously offered an option to disable Gemini in Google Photos. But this option was hidden in the app's settings. Many users did not notice it.
Responding to User Feedback
Google said the update came in response to user feedback. Users asked for more control over how search results are displayed in the app.
The company also worked to improve the quality of some common searches. This was based on that feedback.
Ben Yeir confirmed that the Google Photos search feature is very popular. It is one of the most used features in the app. She noted that the company will keep developing it. This is to ensure a better user experience.