Google Photos is testing new ‘Collections’ redesign: Mixed reaction

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Google Photos, the popular photo management app, is currently testing a redesign of the Gallery tab on Android, renaming it “Collections.” Although the move is aimed at enhancing user experience, initial feedback from users has been less than enthusiastic.

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Simplified interface, mixed response

An improved Collections tab streamlines the user interface, including top shortcuts for Favorites, Utilities, Archives, and Trash. However, the revamp removes familiar elements like the “Photos on device” carousel and the chronological grid of cloud albums, leaving behind a grid with automatically created groups. This difference from the previous layout has caused mixed reactions among users, according to reports9to5google.

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Change navigation

Accessing local folders now requires the user to first open the “On this device” section, which provides a grid or list view. The addition of a list view option is appreciated for its compactness. However, the process of accessing a backed up Album involves an additional step, complicating the user experience. Users have expressed concerns about this increased complexity and the need for a smoother navigation flow.

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Feedback and testing

Efforts to improve Google Libraries began in 2022, but previous efforts were shelved due to limited implementation and user feedback. The recent implementation of Collections is still in beta, with limited availability indicating ongoing refinement based on user input. While some users appreciate the cleaner interface and streamlined navigation, others miss the familiarity and convenience of the previous layout.

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Despite the mixed reception, the current design of the Collection still strikes a balance and matches users’ expectations of a photo gallery. The autogroup feature, while useful, raises questions about its relevance in a library context, and a more relevant feature can be found in the Search tab.

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While Google Photos’ move towards a Collections-based gallery system shows promise, it’s important for the tech giant to address user concerns and refine the redesign before widely deployed. This iterative approach ensures that the final product matches user expectations and delivers a seamless and intuitive photo management experience.

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