Mwangi Enos
Google Photos is introducing a highly anticipated AI-powered feature Ask Photos in a limited rollout to select users in the US.
The feature is powered by Gemini AI and allows users to search for specific images stored in their Google Photos library by using natural-language, conversational queries.
Initially unveiled at the Google I/O event in May, the feature is now being gradually made available to Android and iOS users as part of a limited early access program.
According to a report from Phone Arena, the Ask Photos feature is being rolled out to several Android users in the US through a server-side update. This feature replaces the standard Search tab within Google Photos, making AI-driven conversational queries the primary tool for finding photos. Early adopters who joined the waitlist last month are reportedly among the first to gain access.
Ask Photos works by allowing users to submit detailed, conversational queries in natural language to pinpoint specific images stored in their Google Photos cloud. Unlike traditional keyword-based search functions, Ask Photos leverages the power of “Gemini AI” to handle both complex, multi-sentence prompts and vague descriptions.
One of the standout features of Ask Photos is Google’s commitment to user privacy. Google has assured users that the search queries made through Ask Photos will not be used for advertising purposes. Although some prompts may be reviewed by humans to improve the AI’s accuracy, this will only occur after the user’s account has been disconnected to protect their personal data.
In line with Google's privacy-first approach, all data processing occurs with a focus on ensuring user information is safeguarded. The AI generates text descriptions for photos and videos, employs facial recognition technology, and combines these elements with location and time stamps to provide more context for image searches.
For instance, if a user took a vacation to Goa between October 1 and 5, the AI can process this information and retrieve relevant images from that time and place.
Google confirmed that the Ask Photos feature would be introduced as part of an early access program. As part of this rollout, users in the US are now starting to see the feature appear in their Google Photos apps. Those who previously signed up for the waitlist are among the first to experience the AI-powered tool.
The Ask Photos feature represents a radical shift in the manner in which users manage and utilize images available in their photo libraries. The tool is powered by Gemini AI and transforms the way users look for images making it more than just plain keywords.
Currently US based Android users are on the forefront in using this wonderful new tool, but once the feature takes off, it is anticipated that Ask Photos will soon become a feature available within Google Photos across the globe.