Image Credits - Swipeinsight
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In 2024, it’s almost impossible to find new consumer tech without some form of artificial intelligence (AI) integration. Google has joined the trend with one of its newest innovations, the AI-powered Ask Photos feature integrated into the Google Photos app. Powered by Google Gemini, this new tool was first introduced at Google I/O 2024 in May, and it has been creating anticipation ever since. While the feature doesn’t have a confirmed release date, early access has been offered via a limited waitlist in the United States, allowing select users to experience Ask Photos before its full rollout.
One fortunate user has already gained access and shared a video showcasing the capabilities of Ask Photos in action. When users get access to Ask Photos, they are greeted with an informational screen that explains its purpose and how data is managed within the app. Importantly, Google assures users that their data won’t be used for advertising or for training other models outside of Google Photos. Additionally, Google clarifies that human reviews will only occur in cases of abuse or harm, easing privacy concerns surrounding the use of this AI technology.
Google had already revealed many key details about Ask Photos during its I/O 2024 announcement, but this recent example gives users a more tangible idea of its functionality. The feature is designed to assist users in locating specific photos or learning about objects within images. For instance, in a recent video shared by a user named Dan, the AI was tasked with finding sunset photos captured at a particular location. The feature provided the requested images and included a “View more” option to see additional pictures, if available.
When the full rollout of Ask Photos occurs, users will likely access it via a dedicated “Ask” tab located in the bottom bar of the Google Photos app. Despite its current limited availability, excitement is growing as more users report having access to the feature. For those who prefer the traditional method, Google Photos still offers the classic search option right beneath the AI prompt, giving users the flexibility to choose their preferred search method.
For now, Ask Photos is available to a select few who signed up for the early access waitlist. Users who haven’t yet gained access can expect the feature to roll out more broadly soon. You can sign up for the waitlist to be among the first to experience Ask Photos and its AI-powered capabilities, which aim to enhance the Google Photos user experience through seamless interaction and more accurate photo retrieval.