Google is removing some editing shortcuts in Google Photos to simplify the overall editing experience. According to the Google support page, tools like Move, Erase, and Reimagine will no longer be triggered by tapping, circling, or scribbling directly on the photo in the main editor screen. The update focuses on reducing accidental triggers caused by gesture-based controls, which could unintentionally activate advanced editing tools while making basic changes.
What is changing in Google Photos
As per the support page, Google is removing certain gesture-based shortcuts that allowed users to quickly access editing tools. Earlier, users could circle, tap, or scribble directly on an image to trigger features like Move, Erase, or Reimagine. While these shortcuts were designed for quick access, they could also activate tools unintentionally. This often disrupted simple edits like cropping or rotating an image, where users did not need advanced AI tools.
Google Photos has evolved beyond a simple gallery app and now offers several AI-based editing features. However, not all users rely on these tools regularly, and some prefer a more straightforward editing process.
How to find and launch editing tools:
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On your Android device, open the Google Photos app. -
Open the photo that you want to edit. -
Tap Edit and then select your tool from the menu. -
Type your desired editing tool, like “Magic Eraser,” or scroll through the list to select it.