Apple introduced a comprehensive update to the Photos app in iOS 26, addressing long-standing user concerns while adding a suite of new features designed to improve usability, organization, and creativity. Whether you’re managing a large photo library or fine-tuning individual images, these updates aim to make the app more intuitive and versatile. Below you’ll find a detailed look at the most notable changes in a new video from Proper Honest Tech.
Simplified navigation
Navigating your photo library has been significantly improved in iOS 26, making it easier to locate and manage your images. The main tabs, “Library” And “Collections” have been moved to the lower left corner for more convenient access. Here’s how these tabs work:
- Library: This tab serves as the central hub for all your photos and videos, providing a unified view of your entire collection.
- Collections: This tab organizes shared albums, media types, and utilities, providing a structured way to locate specific content.
Additionally, the search functionality has been overhauled with natural language processing. You can now search for photos using phrases like “sunset photos from last year” or “photos with Emma at the beach.” This eliminates the need for endless scrolling and allows you to find images quickly and efficiently.
Improved sorting and filtering
New “Filter & Sort” options provide greater control over how your photos are organized. You can now sort your images by:
- Date of capture
- Recently added
- Tags such as “favorites” or “edited”
Filters can be combined to create more specific views of your library. For example, you can view only your favorite videos or edited photos. Another useful feature highlights photos that aren’t part of any albums, making it easier to organize stray images. These tools streamline the process of managing large photo libraries, saving time and effort.
Personalized customization
iOS 26 introduces expanded customization options, allowing you to tailor the Photos app to your preferences. Key features include:
- Adjustable photo grid: Customize the grid by zooming in or out and changing the aspect ratio to suit your viewing preferences.
- Managing screenshots: Keep screenshots in a dedicated album while excluding them from your main library for a cleaner browsing experience.
- Shared with you: Decide whether photos shared via Messages appear in your Library, giving you more control over your content.
These updates ensure that your photo library is not only better organized, but also reflects your personal style and needs.
Revamped Collections tab
The “Collections” tab has been redesigned to improve usability and flexibility. You can now:
- Rearrange and collapse sections for a cleaner, more streamlined layout.
- Pin frequently viewed albums or sections to the top for faster navigation.
Customizing the “Collections” tab is simple. A simple long press lets you pin or unpin sections, ensuring your most used albums are always within reach.
Advanced editing tools
Photo editing in the Photos app has become more powerful and user-friendly with the addition of new tools. These include:
- Appearance settings: Switch between light, dark, or system mode while editing for a consistent visual experience that matches your preferences.
- Loop tool in markup: Highlight specific areas of a photo by enlarging them with adjustable size, zoom level and color. This tool is particularly useful for highlighting details in images.
These improvements are aimed at both casual users and those who need more advanced editing capabilities, making the application versatile for a wide range of needs.
Creating 3D space photos
One of the most innovative features of iOS 26 is the ability to create 3D spatial photos. This feature transforms your images into immersive, three-dimensional scenes, adding depth and a sense of realism. You can even use imported photos to create these spatial images. For users who prefer a simpler experience, the option to disable spatial photo creation is available, ensuring that the app remains accessible to everyone, regardless of technical expertise.
Why these updates are important
The 26 Photos iOS app update represents a significant improvement in usability, organization, and customization. By filling previous gaps and introducing new convenient features, Apple has made the app more intuitive and versatile. Whether you’re searching for specific images, organizing your library, or exploring creative possibilities, these updates provide a more streamlined and customizable experience tailored to your needs.
Here’s a selection of other guides from our extensive content library that might interest you on the iOS 26 Photos app updates.
Source and image credit: Honest and appropriate technology
Filed under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides
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