What you need to know
- Google Photos rolls out an update to help users edit their summer photos, as “Moods” gets introduced.
- With “Moods,” users will find a selection of vintage styles that “automatically adapt” to your photo, solidifying Google’s intent of a feature that’s more than a simple filter.
- This update also brings Gemini Spark integration, giving users an easier, prompt-based way of editing their photos and removing unwanted guests.
Today (Sept. 24), Google detailed an update for the Photos app that begins with Gemini Spark integration. Availability is rolling out for Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the U.S. The company says users can “brighten and share” photos using a single prompt with Gemini Spark. What’s more, users can remove people from the photo’s background, leaving those who matter.
This update is also introducing “Moods.” Google says Moods brings styles that users can use to edit their photos. However, it adds that these are “more than filters.” You’ll find a few options such as 35mm film and 2000s digicam. When you apply a style, Google states Moods will “automatically adapt” to your photo. But users can take things a step further.
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You’ll find sliders to fine-tune how much a style influences your photo, as well as mixing themes from other styles. Moods are rolling out to Android users globally.
(Image credit: Google)
The Google Photos app is upgrading its markup tool in this September patch. The tool now provides a “redact pen” to help users blur sensitive details. Additionally, you’ll find “precise thickness sliders for custom sketches and fresh fonts to make your text pop.” Another new addition involves the app’s Remix templates. Google is rolling out 15 Remix templates that turn your photos into photo booth-style shots, birthday cards, and more.
The redact pen and other markup tool updates are arriving to Android users globally. The additional Remix templates are arriving for Android and iOS users over 18 in “select countries.”
Google detailed one final update, but it’s more of an expansion. The Photos app’s Wardrobe feature, which lets users curate a digital closet for clothing styles, is now rolling out in the U.S., India, and Brazil on Android and iOS.
Expanding features
Android Central’s Take
Regarding the app’s Wardrobe feature, I can’t help but think of what my colleague Jay said, “If your closet is so messy that only machine learning can sort it out, maybe the real answer is to spend twenty minutes folding clothes.” I can’t help but agree. I can see the appeal behind this feature. It’s easy to quickly visualize things without dipping in and out and trying things on. But… why does this computer need to know the clothes I have?
If you remember Moto’s Razr reveal earlier this year, Wardrobe in Photos would sound familiar. The feature evolves the static gallery into a personal stylist and daily content hub. Wardrobe can automatically identify specific pieces of clothing, helping you fill out your digital closet. Users can mix and match different outfits and share those with others. So if you’re looking to coordinate fits for your next outing, this might help.
Gemini Spark is a proactive AI that Google launched in May. The AI is capable of managing tasks and workflows in the background without disturbing you. Users can think of Spark as an AI agent that gets the dirty work done for you. If connected, you can bring Gemini Spark into your Gmail, Docs, Slides, and other apps. You can automate tasks with Gemini Spark or review meeting and email summaries.
