# Discovering the Latest Features of iOS 18.4’s Photos Application
With the rollout of iOS 18.4, Apple has unveiled an array of enhancements to its Photos application, offering users increased options and flexibility for managing their photo libraries. While certain features may stand out more than others, numerous subtle updates can greatly enhance the overall user experience. Here’s an in-depth exploration of the fresh features and improvements in the Photos app with iOS 18.4.
## 1. Enhanced Filtering Capabilities
Among the most beneficial updates in iOS 18.4 is the addition of enhanced filtering capabilities within the Photos application. Users can now filter their photo and video libraries based on two additional criteria:
– **Shared With You**: This filter enables users to swiftly access photos and videos that have been shared by others.
– **Not in an Album**: This feature assists users in pinpointing photos and videos that have not been categorized into albums, simplifying the process of managing and sorting their media.
To use these filters, simply tap the icon with two vertical arrows found in the lower-left corner while viewing a collection. Furthermore, users can locate additional filtering options in the Albums section by tapping the three-dot icon in the top-right corner, allowing filtering to display only Albums or only Folders.
## 2. New Sorting Feature for Albums
The Albums screen has also undergone a prominent update in iOS 18.4. In addition to the current sorting options—Sort by Name and Sort by Custom Order—users can now arrange their albums by:
– **Sort by Date Modified**: This novel sorting technique organizes albums and folders so that the most recently modified items appear at the top of the list, facilitating easier access to the latest changes.
Additionally, the terms for viewing options have been revamped; “Grid” and “List” are now referred to as “List View” and “Key Photo.” While this alteration may not impact functionality, it might cause some confusion among users.
## 3. Privacy Features for Albums Disabling
With privacy being an increasing priority for many users, iOS 18.4 tackles this concern by allowing the option to disable specific default albums in the Photos app. The two albums affected are:
– **Recently Viewed**: This album showcases the photos and videos that users have accessed recently.
– **Recently Shared**: This album displays the media that has been shared with others.
For users wishing to keep these albums hidden for privacy reasons, iOS 18.4 introduces a new toggle in the Settings menu. To deactivate these albums, navigate to Settings > Apps > Photos, and scroll down to locate the option labeled “Show Recently Viewed & Shared.” This toggle can be found just below the option to disable the “Hidden” album.
## 4. Personalized Collection Arrangement
Another significant improvement in iOS 18.4 is the ability to customize the arrangement of collections within the Photos application. Previously, collections such as Favorites, Hidden, Duplicates, and Media Types were arranged in a fixed sequence. Now, users can utilize a new “Edit” button available within each collection, which allows them to rearrange the list according to their preferences. This functionality offers a more personalized experience, enabling users to prioritize the collections they access most frequently.
## Conclusion
The enhancements rolled out in iOS 18.4’s Photos application exemplify Apple’s dedication to improving user experience through thoughtful design and functionality. With the introduction of new filtering options, album sorting capabilities, privacy features, and customizable collections, users have gained more control over their photo management than ever before. Whether you’re a casual user or a photography aficionado, these improvements are guaranteed to enhance your interaction with your media.
Were any of these updates on your wish list? What additional changes do you hope to see in upcoming releases? Share your thoughts in the comments!
