Google Photos has acquired strong AI features that enable one to animate still images and add creative styles with a simple tap. The update revolves around two major features: a photo-to-video converter and an image remix feature, and all creation features will be brought under a new Create tab in the app. These updates are available today to Android and iOS users in the US, and will be introduced to additional locations later this year.
Animate photos into six‑second videos
The photo‑to‑video feature taps into Google’s Veo 2 video model to turn any image in your library into a short clip. Users select a picture, choose between prompts labeled “Subtle movements” or “I’m feeling lucky,” and watch the app generate a six‑second animation. The AI adds realistic motion, such as gently swaying leaves in a landscape or a zoom effect that brings focus to detail. Each clip includes a visible watermark and an invisible SynthID tag so viewers know it was AI‑generated.
Remix photos into unique styles
Google’s Imagen image model powers the Remix tool, which transforms photos into new artistic renditions. Users pick a style (anime comic sketch, or 3D animation) and the AI reimagines their original photo in that aesthetic. This feature arrives in the coming weeks for US Android and iOS users and makes it possible to create visually striking images without third‑party editing apps.
A dedicated Create tab
All of Google Photos’ creative options now live under a single Create tab that appears in the app’s main navigation. This tab organizes traditional tools like collage maker and highlight video alongside AI features such as Reimagine, Remix, and photo‑to‑video. Google plans to add more experiments and refinements over time, giving users one central hub for crafting new content.
Feedback to improve AI
Because these tools are experimental, Google requests user feedback on every output. A simple thumb‑up or thumbs‑down lets the company gauge quality and guide AI improvements. Early testers are encouraged to rate their results to help Google refine the models and reduce errors.
What is next for AI features
In the summer, Google Photos will be integrated with the more powerful Veo 3 model, already announced on YouTube Shorts, to facilitate longer and more intense video productions. These AI-powered tools invite generative creativity into the hands of 1.5 billion+ users globally as Google Photos celebrates a decade of existence.
Through the implementation of easy-to-use artificial intelligence-powered effects and the ability to do everything in a single Create space, Google Photos has enabled all people to transform memories into living narratives. It can be used to create animations of popular snapshots, remixing of portraits to comic scenes, all of which can easily be explored through the Photos app with the new tools.
