- Google is testing a new “folder” icon in the main header to provide instant access to on-device media.
- The Collections tab and Backup settings are set for a visual refresh with more modern, consistent UI elements.
- The photo details view is also being updated, bringing a cleaner look to individual image information.
Google is hard at work making Google Photos more intuitive and visually cohesive. While we’ve recently seen work on a date label toggle and collage customization, new evidence suggests an even broader UI transformation. From a dedicated shortcut for on-device folders to a complete refresh of the Backup settings and photo details view, Google is refining nearly every corner of the app experience.
Google Photos could soon add a shortcut for your on-device folders
Google Photos is the only media and gallery app on Pixel smartphones. The default Photos view is great for bringing together photos you click on your phone, but it’s not great at showcasing your on-device folders. Google has a dedicated “On this device” section in the Collections tab that lists all the folders on your phone with photos and videos, including screenshots and folders created by third-party apps. However, for most people, this is easy to miss unless they already know it exists.