Google Photos has introduced 3 new updates for Android users, with the latest release bringing more control over the shimmer effect, a refreshed settings design, and a faster way to capture photos for AI-powered features.
The biggest addition is a new “Show shimmer” toggle, which allows users to turn the shimmer effect on or off. The shimmer appears as an outline around people or objects in photos that users can interact with, such as creating stickers. It remains enabled by default and can be managed through Photos view in the 3-dot menu or by navigating to Settings > Preferences.
Google is also rolling out a Material 3 Expressive redesign for the Settings page. The updated interface introduces container-based sections on the main Settings page, as well as Backup and Preferences, making menu items easier to distinguish. Other sections, including Notifications, Sharing, Apps & devices, and Privacy, continue to use the previous design as the rollout happens gradually.
Both of these changes are being introduced with Google Photos 7.85 on Android.
The update also adds a new camera shortcut for Remix, Photo to video, and other AI templates. Instead of selecting an existing image from the photo library, users can tap a large floating action button (FAB) to open the device camera and capture a new photo instantly.
According to Google, the feature is designed for quick and temporary inputs, such as a simple photo or a funny face, without requiring users to leave the app. It also offers a faster workflow, reduces unnecessary photo library clutter, and allows newly captured images to be used immediately with AI-powered tools like Photo to video.
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