Google Photos Set for Expressive Redesign with YouTube-like ‘Tap-and-Hold’ Controls

Android 16’s initial stable release will not feature the long-awaited Material 3 Expressive redesign. Users who want to experience this redesign sooner can either enroll in the QPR1 beta or wait for the stable QPR1 update, which is set to arrive in September. In addition to the OS-level updates, several Google applications such as Calendar, TV OS, Files, Phone, Gmail, Messages, and Photos are gradually embracing expressive design elements.

Google Photos is set for major visual improvements, including a new video player that incorporates redesigned controls and features like tap-to-fast-forward and tap-to-rewind. The search results page will also see changes, grouping the “best match” images together and moving the search bar to the bottom of the screen. While the stable version of Android 16 is expected to launch this month, it will not include the Material 3 Expressive redesign.

Users eager for this feature have the option to join the QPR1 beta for immediate access or to wait for the quarterly update in September to avoid any beta-related issues. The QPR1 update will introduce a UI refresh at the OS level, and individual applications are also experimenting with expressive design elements. Recent leaks indicate that Google Photos, in particular, is in the process of redesigning its interface.

The refreshed video player is likely to feature a side-mounted play/pause button rather than an overlay, alongside enhanced timeline controls. The layout will also emphasize the date and time of video files, while offering a new ‘Add to’ button for easier organization. Additionally, Google Photos is expected to redesign its search results page, consolidating “best match” images into a distinct square that occupies a substantial part of the search screen.

The search bar is anticipated to be relocated to the bottom, aligning with the design trends seen in other Google apps. Other potential enhancements, including a floating bottom bar and rounded photo cards, remain unconfirmed, with it still unclear whether these changes will be introduced through a dedicated update or alongside the QPR1 release.