Google Photos Addresses Slow ‘Ask Photos’ AI Search
Google Photos is rolling out a significant update to its “Ask Photos” AI search feature, directly addressing previous performance issues and user feedback. After acknowledging that the initial implementation wasn’t meeting expectations and pausing its wider release, Google is now launching an improved version that promises faster results and a smoother user experience.
Earlier this month, Google had admitted that the debut of its AI-powered “Ask Photos” feature was encountering performance challenges, particularly with speed. This led to a temporary halt in its rollout while the company worked on a fix. Google indicated that an enhanced version would arrive within weeks, and that updated experience is now beginning to reach users.
Why Was ‘Ask Photos’ Slow?
The “Ask Photos” feature, powered by Google’s Gemini AI model, was designed to allow users to search their photo library using natural language queries, going beyond simple keywords. For instance, you could ask “Where did we camp last time at Yosemite?” to find specific photos. While a powerful concept, the initial execution often felt clunky or slower for common, day-to-day searches compared to the traditional Google Photos search.
In fact, some users found themselves preferring the classic search mode and even discovered a hidden workaround (a double-tap on the search icon on Android) to quickly switch back to the older, faster experience when needed. This user feedback highlighted a clear need for quicker access to results, especially for simpler queries, alongside the AI’s deeper capabilities.
The Clever Fix: Combining Search
Google’s solution is a clever integration of the classic, fast search functionality with the newer “Ask Photos” AI search. Instead of forcing users to toggle between two different modes or wait for the AI to process every request, the system now performs both types of searches simultaneously from a single search bar.
Here’s how it works:
When you type a query, Google Photos initiates both the traditional index-based search and the AI-powered “Ask Photos” process.
Crucially, the results from the classic, super-fast search are displayed almost instantly. This provides rapid feedback for simpler, keyword-based searches.
Concurrently, Gemini works in the background to generate the more complex or nuanced results provided by the “Ask Photos” AI.
These AI-powered results will then appear as they become available, enhancing the initial quick results with deeper insights from your library.
This combined approach means users no longer have to choose between speed and AI power. They get the best of both worlds within a single, streamlined interaction.
Rolling Out Now
Google has confirmed that this improved, faster version of “Ask Photos” is now rolling out. It’s becoming available beyond its initial early access phase and is currently deploying to “eligible users” in the United States. If you’re in the US, keep an eye on your Google Photos app – you should see this integrated search experience appearing soon.
This update demonstrates Google’s commitment to embedding AI like Gemini across its services, from generating lists in Google Keep to enhancing productivity in Chrome and Gmail. However, as Google continues to push advanced AI features like “Ask Photos,” user feedback highlights the ongoing importance of ensuring core functionalities, like fast search and even basic editing tools (like the recently added photo flip feature), are robust and easily accessible. The integrated search fix is a direct response to ensuring AI enhances, rather than hinders, the fundamental user experience of quickly finding photos.
