Google has rolled out a fresh set of AI-powered updates for Google Photos, introducing a new camera shortcut for AI editing tools while also addressing one of users’ biggest complaints. The latest update finally allows users to disable the animated ‘Shimmer’ effect, an AI-powered visual cue that highlights objects and people in photos for quick editing actions.
The changes are being released with the latest version of Google Photos for Android and are aimed at making AI features more useful without disrupting the photo viewing experience.
Users Can Finally Disable The ‘Shimmer’ Effect
One of the most requested changes is the ability to turn off the Shimmer animation.
The effect automatically outlines people or objects in photos, indicating that they can be converted into stickers or used with AI editing features. While designed as a helpful prompt, many users found the constantly animated outlines distracting while simply browsing their photo library.
With the latest update, users can now disable the feature through the Photos View settings, allowing them to enjoy a cleaner and distraction-free gallery experience.
New AI Camera Shortcut
Google Photos has also introduced a new camera shortcut within its AI-powered creative tools.
Previously, users had to select an existing image from their gallery before using AI features such as Remix, Photo to Video and other creative templates. The update now adds a dedicated camera button, allowing users to capture a fresh photo instantly and use it directly with AI-powered editing and generation tools.
The shortcut is designed to make AI creation faster and more convenient.
More Polished User Interface
The latest update also brings visual improvements to the Google Photos settings menu.
Parts of the app are receiving Google’s newer Material 3 Expressive design language, featuring cleaner layouts, improved spacing and better-organised settings. While not every settings page has been redesigned yet, Google is gradually updating different sections of the app.
The refreshed interface is intended to improve navigation and make settings easier to access.
AI Features Continue To Expand
Google has been steadily expanding AI capabilities inside Google Photos over the past year.
Users can already search their photo library using natural language, create AI-powered edits, generate creative images and perform intelligent object selection. The latest updates further strengthen Google’s focus on making AI an integral part of everyday photo management while giving users greater control over how these features appear inside the app.
A Better Balance Between AI And User Control
The new update reflects Google’s effort to balance powerful AI capabilities with user preferences. While AI-powered editing tools continue to expand, the addition of an option to disable the Shimmer effect shows that Google is also responding to user feedback by reducing unnecessary visual distractions.
As Google Photos evolves, future updates are expected to introduce even more AI-powered editing and search capabilities while offering users greater flexibility in how they interact with these features.
Summary
Google Photos has introduced new AI features, including a camera shortcut for Remix and other creative tools, while finally allowing users to disable the animated ‘Shimmer’ effect that highlights editable objects in photos. The update also brings parts of Google’s Material 3 Expressive design, making the app cleaner, more intuitive and less distracting for everyday photo browsing.
