Google Photos is a photo and video storage app from Google. It launched as a separate service in 2015, split off from the Google+ social network. It backs up pictures from a phone to the cloud so people can free up space and see their photos on any device.
The app groups photos by people, places and things, and users can search for objects such as dogs or beaches without tagging anything. It builds albums, collages and short Memories from past photos. Editing tools adjust light, colour and framing, and some advanced tools need a paid plan. Shared albums and partner sharing let families collect photos in one place.
Photos once offered free unlimited storage at reduced quality. Since June 2021, all new uploads count toward the 15 GB that comes free with every Google account. Google One plans sell more storage and unlock extra editing features. Google Photos is the default gallery on many Android phones, and it also runs on iOS and the web. It is a common choice for people who switch between iPhone and Android and want one photo library.