Google is testing a new way of automatically grouping pictures in Google Photos
Google is testing out a significant change to how images are presented in Google Photos that could lead to a radically less cluttered library view that’s also quicker to browse.
According to recent findings from the prolific software sleuth AssembleDebug (link opens in Telegram), the latest version (version 6.59) of the Google Photos app contains hidden text elements supporting an as-yet-unreleased “Photo Stack” feature.
Newly added text found in the app reads:
- "Photo stacks automatically groups similar photos that were taken together"
- "Turn on photo stacks to organize similar photos that were taken together"
- "Change top pick or edit stack"
- "Manage photo stacks anytime"
But what are photo stacks? In the absence of any screenshots, all we can do is speculate. Still, I suspect the feature will allow users to de-clutter their Google Photos Libraries by keeping multiple similar photos grouped in virtual ‘stacks’—Imagine spreading physical photos on a table in front of you but stacking similar-looking pictures together in separate piles.
It’s pretty likely that in any group of similar photos, there will be one that stands out as your favorite. This would then be the photo you select as “top pick” to be placed at the top of the pile. A similar function exists in other photo management software, such as Adobe Lightroom Classic, which also offers a “stacking” concept, most commonly used to keep different versions of a particular photo together but still individually accessible.
A key difference here is that these stacks are automatically created for you. It remains to be seen whether users will be able to compile photo stacks manually.
If you don’t like the sound of this function, don’t worry, as according to the report, there will be a setting available to turn the feature on or off.
As ever, test features like this may change before they receive a public rollout, if they appear at all. I’ll be back with more information when, or if, the feature eventually becomes available to test.
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