# Google Photos Unveils “Ask Photos” Function for Improved Memory Discovery
Following its introduction at the I/O 2024 event in May, Google Photos is beginning the rollout of a new feature named “Ask Photos” to select users in the United States on both Android and iOS devices. This feature aims to revolutionize user interaction with their photo collections by providing a conversational search capability.
## What is Ask Photos?
Ask Photos harnesses cutting-edge AI technology, particularly the Gemini models, to grasp the context of a user’s photo collection. This includes identifying essential aspects such as significant individuals, hobbies, and favorite cuisines. The intention is to assist users in effortlessly locating specific recollections and retrieving pertinent information regarding their lives through natural language inquiries.
For example, if a user is organizing a camping excursion and wants to recall a favorite campsite, they can simply ask, “Where did we camp the last time we went to Yosemite?” Likewise, if they want to revisit a restaurant they liked, they might query, “What did we have at the hotel in Stanley?” The feature is engineered to recognize details like camping equipment in photos or meals served at a dining establishment, providing users with precise answers.
## How Does It Work?
Upon activation, Ask Photos appears as the last tab in the Google Photos app, featuring a search bar at the bottom for users to input their queries. This interface resembles a chat dialogue, facilitating a more user-friendly search experience. Users can revert to the conventional “classic search” mode whenever they choose.
As users type their questions, the app shows a loading animation with phases labeled “Thinking,” “Searching,” and “Reviewing.” The results are displayed in a visually attractive format, incorporating Material You design principles. If Ask Photos does not find the sought-after information initially, users can offer more hints to narrow down the search.
Beyond addressing specific questions, Ask Photos can also recommend the standout photos from occasions like birthday celebrations for shared albums or encapsulate highlights from recent trips for sharing with friends.
## Privacy Considerations
Google highlights that user privacy remains a primary concern. The company states, “Google Photos is never used for ads and is safeguarded with our industry-leading security practices.” While inquiries may be evaluated by humans to enhance the Ask Photos feature, this happens only after dissociating the data from the user’s Google Account to maintain privacy. Responses generated by Ask Photos, alongside any related photos and videos, undergo human review only in the case of feedback or exceptional instances of misuse.
## Availability and Future Access
The initial access rollout of Ask Photos is now available through Google Labs, and eager users can register for waitlist access via the Google Photos website. This groundbreaking feature is set to improve user satisfaction by simplifying the process of navigating and retrieving treasured memories stored in Google Photos.
In conclusion, Ask Photos signifies a major advancement in how users can engage with their digital memories, making it simpler to reflect and share experiences with friends and family. As Google refines this feature further, it is positioned to become an indispensable tool for anyone wishing to relive their favorite captured moments.
