Google Photos has a handy hidden shortcut that lets you skip the new Ask Photos feature and jump straight to the classic search. If you prefer the old search style, this trick is super useful. Here’s what you need to know.
The "Ask Photos" feature, rolled out in September 2024, uses AI to let you search your photos with natural language questions like “What did I eat last weekend?” It’s powered by Google’s Gemini model and is great for detailed searches. But it can feel slow for simple lookups, and many users still love the classic search for its speed and familiar layout.
To use the shortcut, open the Google Photos app on your Android device and find the search icon in the bottom right corner. It looks like a magnifying glass with “Ask” on it. Double-tap this icon, and you’ll instantly switch to the classic search interface. This shows your recent searches and suggestions, making it quick to find photos. To go back to Ask Photos, just tap the icon once.
Sadly, this double tap trick only works on Android, not iPhone. iOS users can still switch to classic search by tapping the “Switch to classic search” button after starting an Ask Photos query, but it’s a bit less convenient.
I think this shortcut is a lifesaver for anyone who finds Ask Photos clunky for daily use. The classic search is faster and feels more straightforward, especially if you’re just looking for photos by date or keyword. It’s nice that Google kept this option for users who want it.
Try it out next time you’re in Google Photos. Double-tap that search icon and see how quick it is to get back to the classic search you know and love.
