Google is rolling out a major update to its Photos app on Android and iOS, headlined by a new Redact markup tool, AI-assisted Gemini Spark integrations, digital wardrobe catalogs, and custom Mood filters designed to give users granular control over their image libraries.
The New Redact Tool and Markup Upgrades
Privacy controls inside the Photos app are getting a significant boost with the arrival of a dedicated Redact pen. Located in the Markup editor alongside existing pen, highlighter, and text options, the tool lets users obscure sensitive details like license plates or personal data. Android Authority testing revealed that the feature provides three ways to actually hide whatever’s underneath it, namely Mosaic, Mosaic Light, and Blur
alongside a brush size slider and a single-tap reset option.
Beyond redaction, the upgraded markup suite adds precise thickness sliders for pens and fresh font options for text annotations.
Gemini Spark Integration and Wardrobe Catalogs
Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the United States now have access to deep Gemini Spark controls within the Photos ecosystem. Users can direct the AI assistant through single prompts to assemble vacation galleries, draft emails to people captured in specific pictures, run bulk edits like boosted shadows, or generate weekly photo recaps.
At the same time, the app’s digital wardrobe feature is expanding its footprint. Initially previewed in April, the capability automatically catalogs clothing and jewelry from an account’s image library to generate virtual styling ideas.
Mood Filters and Remix Templates
Visual customization is also expanding via new Moods and Remix templates. Android users worldwide can now apply filters such as Retro contrast,
Crisp 35mm film, digicam-style 2000’s night, Night light, Blue Haze, Any Minimalist, and Rich textures. Each option features slider controls and intelligently adapts to the specific lighting and composition of individual photos.
15 new Remix templates are arriving for Android and iOS users in select countries. These templates let users integrate their own likeness into red carpet scenes, whimsical birthday cards, and photo booth layouts.
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