In a recent update to the Google Photos app, Android users can now back up their locked folders, allowing them to access their sensitive images and screenshots from any device. This new feature expands on the existing capability of setting up locked folders, which Google has been offering to Android users for some time as a way to keep private files safe from prying eyes. Furthermore, this update also brings the locked folders feature to iOS and web users, making it accessible to a wider audience beyond Android users.
Setting up a locked folder is a simple process within the Photos app. Users can navigate to the Utilities section, where they will find “cards” for various features. Among these cards, they can choose to directly create a locked folder for any image they want to keep safe. Once the folder is set up, users have the option to back it up or not. They can easily add more images to the locked folder by long-pressing on one image and selecting other images to add. These images will remain inaccessible outside of the locked folder and can only be accessed after verifying their identity using their device’s password or biometric authentication.
With the latest update, Google Photos has also introduced a simplified settings page. Users can now access this page by clicking on their account icon and selecting the settings option. The new layout organizes settings into sections such as privacy, backup, sharing, and notifications, making it easier for users to find and adjust their desired settings.
The ability to back up locked folders is a significant advancement, as it provides users with more flexibility and convenience in accessing their sensitive files. Users no longer have to worry about losing access to their locked folders if they switch devices or lose their phone. With the backed-up folders, they can retrieve their images from any of their devices, ensuring that their private files are always accessible when needed.
Expanding the locked folders feature to iOS and web users is another noteworthy development. Previously, this feature was exclusive to Pixel smartphones, but now it is available to a wider range of devices. This expansion allows users who don’t own an Android device to experience the benefits of secure storage for their sensitive images. Whether they use an iPhone or access Google Photos via the web, they can now set up and access locked folders, providing them with a seamless and consistent experience across different platforms.
The inclusion of the simplified settings page is also a welcome addition. By reorganizing the settings into distinct sections, Google Photos aims to enhance user experience and make it easier for users to customize their app preferences. Whether users want to adjust their privacy settings, manage their backup options, control sharing settings, or fine-tune their notification preferences, they can now do so more efficiently with the updated settings page.
Overall, Google’s updates to the Photos app bring valuable improvements to users’ experience and privacy. The ability to back up locked folders ensures that users never lose access to their private images, regardless of the device they are using. The expansion of the locked folders feature to iOS and web users broadens its availability and offers a consistent experience across platforms. Additionally, the simplified settings page streamlines the customization process, allowing users to easily manage and personalize their app settings. These updates demonstrate Google’s commitment to providing a secure and user-friendly environment for storing and managing personal photos.
