I Experimented with the New Gemini Feature in Google Photos – Traditional Search is Now Outdated
Introduction to Gemini Integration in Google Photos
The highly anticipated Gemini integration has begun rolling out to Google Photos, making it more convenient for users to manage and search their photo collections. Previously in a beta phase, this feature is now accessible to most users globally, enhancing the overall functionality of the popular photo storage service.
What to Expect from Gemini
One noticeable change when you open the Google Photos app is the replacement of the traditional search button with a new "Ask" button. Tapping this button activates Gemini, allowing users to interact and search through their photos more intuitively.
How Gemini Functions
According to Google’s official support page, Gemini provides several capabilities to streamline your photo search experience. Here are some ways you can utilize this innovative feature:
- Facial Recognition: Ask Gemini to find specific faces from photos you’ve already saved.
- Date and Location: Search for photos based on when they were taken or where they were captured.
- Photo Descriptions: Describe what’s happening in a photo to locate it.
While these functions resemble those of the traditional Google Photos search feature, Gemini takes it a step further. The integration allows you to ask more detailed questions to refine your search results.
Example Prompts to Use
Gemini encourages users to formulate specific questions. Here are a few examples:
- "What are some things we ate in Mexico City?"
- "What was my driver’s license number?"
- "What themes have we had for my kid’s birthday parties?"
These prompts illustrate how versatile and user-friendly Gemini can be.
Testing the Gemini Feature
To see how effective Gemini is, I decided to test a few simple requests myself. My first command was, "Show me recent selfies." Surprisingly, Gemini displayed a wide array of selfies, predominantly from 2025, though not all were the most recent ones. Instead, it provided a selection from various occasions throughout the year.
Searching by Specific Context
I tried the query, "Show me selfies I took in a museum." The initial results were a mixed bag. While some selfies were indeed from museums, Gemini also included various pictures from family outings, including trips to parks and other events. Nevertheless, Gemini refined the results, identifying selfies taken specifically in museums, such as one at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. Interestingly, trying the same search in the classic mode yielded no results at all.
Gaining Insight into Food Photos
Continuing my exploration, I asked, "What did we eat in New York City?" Gemini successfully compiled a list of food-related photos from my recent trip, providing a detailed inventory of dishes, including notable mentions like "towering pastrami sandwiches" and "lobster mac and cheese."
Additional Features of Gemini
Apart from searching for photos, Gemini can assist in crafting written content based on pictures. For users wanting a catchy caption for social media posts, Gemini can help generate ideas. However, it’s important to note that Gemini does not enable photo editing, labelling, or creating new albums.
How to Access Gemini
To experience the Gemini integration, simply open your Google Photos app and look for the new "Ask" button at the bottom right. Exploration of this feature not only enhances the way you interact with your photos but also adds an exciting new layer to your photo management experience. Whether you’re searching for memories or looking for specific groups of images, Gemini aims to make it simpler than ever.
