Google rolls out its AI-powered ‘Ask Photos’ update for Google Photos again

Google is once again expanding access to its AI-driven “Ask Photos” feature in Google Photos, after a brief pause in its rollout earlier this month. The tool, powered by Google’s Gemini AI models, allows users to search their photo libraries using natural language queries – even complex ones – like “Show me pictures of my dog at the beach in 2019.”

The company announced the update in a blog post on Thursday, stating that it had taken user feedback seriously. Google acknowledged concerns around latency, result quality, and user experience. “We’ve heard your feedback that the feature should return more photos faster for simple searches, like ‘beach’ or ‘dogs,’” the company wrote.

In response, Google says users will now see quicker results for straightforward queries, with Gemini continuing to refine and deliver more relevant matches in the background for complex requests. This two-tiered system is designed to improve speed without compromising accuracy.

Initially introduced as a limited early access feature, “Ask Photos” is now “opening up beyond early access” and will begin rolling out to more “eligible users” in the United States, according to the blog post. While the company hasn’t specified exactly who qualifies as eligible, the broader rollout marks a renewed confidence in the feature after initial hesitation.

Earlier this month, a member of the Google Photos team acknowledged on X (formerly Twitter) that the tool “isn’t where it needs to be, in terms of latency, quality and UX.” That admission reflected internal recognition of user frustration and perhaps contributed to the brief pause in availability.

“Ask Photos” is part of Google’s broader effort to integrate Gemini AI capabilities across its product ecosystem, from Search to Gmail to Drive. By enabling users to retrieve memories through conversational prompts rather than strict keywords or filters, the tool promises a more intuitive and personalized experience.

While still rolling out gradually, the improvements and renewed access suggest Google is committed to making AI a core part of how users interact with their digital memories. For now, eligible U.S. users can expect faster and smarter photo searches, with further enhancements likely on the horizon.