Google is enhancing photo library searches with a new feature called “Ask Photos.” Powered by Google’s Gemini AI models, this tool allows users to search for images and videos in Google Photos using natural, descriptive language. Rather than just searching by people, pets, or locations, users can describe specific scenes or moments, and Google Photos will display the most relevant results.
What is Ask Photos?
Ask Photos is an advanced search tool that enables users to interact with their photo libraries in a more conversational and intuitive way. Moving beyond traditional keyword-based searches, this feature lets you use detailed descriptions or ask complex questions to locate specific images. For instance, if you want a photo of you and a friend laughing at an event, you can simply say, “John and me laughing,” and it will retrieve relevant images. It also handles detailed queries like “Kayaking on a lake” or “Lisa painting in the backyard,” simplifying the search for specific memories within large photo collections.
Ask Photos utilizes Google’s Gemini AI to understand the context of your images, including people, places, and objects. It recognizes familiar faces, hobbies, and locations, allowing for specific queries like, “Where did we camp on our last Europe trip?” or “What did we eat at the hotel in Greece?” By identifying details such as camping equipment or food items, it provides more accurate answers.
If the search results aren’t perfect on the first try, you can refine them by adding specifics, like a season or a friend’s name, and Ask Photos will adjust the results.
The feature also aids in tasks like selecting the best images for a shared album or summarizing events, making it easier to navigate large photo collections and find key moments.
When will it be available?
The Ask Photos feature is currently in early access, being gradually rolled out to select users in the U.S. through Google Labs. Google is releasing it cautiously to ensure smooth functionality before a broader rollout. If you’d like early access, you can join the waitlist. Once refined, it will be available to a wider audience.
As with all Google services, privacy is a top priority. Google assures users that their photos and data won’t be used for advertising. While some queries may be reviewed by humans to improve the feature, they will be anonymized and separated from your account for privacy protection. Human reviews will be rare, occurring only to address specific issues like abuse or potential harm.
Leave feedback about this